The Pervert And The Virgin – Part Twenty-Three

My thanks to those readers who took the trouble to offer their encouragement. Hopefully I have managed to make reading this tale worth your time and evoked shall we say a suitable reaction in response from you. Please let me know what you find particularly enjoyable so I can consider more of it in future stories. Thank you for taking the time to read and respond.

Disclaimer: Please do not read this story of a man and a boy who choose to become lovers if it is illegal and/or socially or religiously unacceptable within the society you now find yourself. Please do not read this if the love between a grown man and a boy is likely to upset you. However, if you should decide to go ahead and read what I have written please do so with the awareness you have chosen to do so of your own free will. The story is entirely fictitious and any resemblance to anybody alive or dead is purely accidental.

Nifty relies on donations to keep you entertained and offer me a forum to hone my skills and to promote my writing. My thanks to Nifty and the generous donors who keep it running.

Polite feedback is welcome at fairbuttfirm@yahoo.com

Tracy came up to wake us and ended up in bed with us except on top of the covers. My housekeeper stood in the doorway and smiled at the five of us. She told us the gang would prepare the rest of breakfast. I sent Tracy off with instruction to add some spice to two of the slow cookers. How wonderful it was when she accepted my word we'd be down in twenty minutes. On the way to the bathroom I told the boys they'd be downstairs in twenty minutes even if they had to finish getting dressed in the dining room. We joined the others closer to fifteen minutes later.

The wall mount for the TV allowed us to turn it toward the dining area. Sanne smiled at the sight of us all at the table eating breakfast. Their drive had been very pleasant but they were looking forward to an early night. The room was very nicely decorated with plenty of room to move around in. Sanne told us they would be dining in the room. They had a very long train ride ahead of them. The trip would take from around six a.m. until nine-thirty p.m. The would keep us updated with emails but we'd most likely chat again on Monday night.

I whispered instructions to Adam while kissing him a few times when we had cleared up the breakfast dishes. Then I challenged the other two miscreants to another round of Smurf racer. They were mumbling about having lost to an old geezer again when Adam suggested they switch to another game. The boys just stared at him as he held up the quest game. Adam nodded in my direction and soon they were hugging and kissing me. When I finally freed myself I settled down on the couch between Sophie and Amanda. I explained how the boys had spent their game money on the garden for Genta and thought they deserved a reward. They hadn't said a word about it or complained. Both moms told me they hadn't heard a single regret voiced about it either. The each kissed me on the cheek for buying it.

The boys needed a break from the game so I arranged for Patricia to show us around the warehouse after lunch. I told Patricia the boys needed some cooking lessons before I left and baking more treats for the construction gang tomorrow would be good practice. The boys promised to bake more while I was away. We had the contractor's number so I had one of the boys ask if any of the guys had special dietary needs. One of the workers was diabetic and another three avoided gluten. There are sweeteners we can use instead of sugar I told the boys. Let's stop at the Co-Op on the way home. While the boys played their new game I called Lao. He told me there was an evening class we could all join in.

Sunday passed pleasantly with the baking. Tracy received an email from Sanne at around midday saying they'd arrived and met up with Kazimierz and Natalia. The hotel was lovely. Our Polish friends couldn't stop talking about their room and how nice the city was. They'd been for a walk on the mountain. The massage in the hotel spa had been a special treat. In short our Polish friends are very happy Tracy explained.

“I know you boys are excited about the game but you can't play it endlessly.” I said. “Go shopping with Tracy for some containers to put our baked goods in. When we've taken care of that you boys will sit at the table and work on your weekly schedule. My housekeeper is very good at organizing things if you need a hand. Three cupcakes should be enough to convince her to help.”

“Let's pretend I need bribing so I will have three cupcakes to take home with me.” my housekeeper told the boys. “I will join you boys on your shopping trip with Tracy. We are going to make a stop on the way which will help you boys get over your game restriction.”

I wasn't too surprised when the boys arrived home with William in tow. While the boys worked on their schedules he would show Tracy and me how to get the most from our phones. He called our cellphone provider and spoke with their tech guys. They had to transfer him up the line because he was asking for information that only a few of the tech guys could provide. When he ended the call he told us they'd offered him two jobs. I had to concentrate on what William was showing me because technical stuff was not something I'd paid much attention to. Tracy started to write notes in her notebook but William showed her how to make them on her phone while he showed us everything on my phone.

While they were at the store William had shown the boys how to tweak their phones with some small purchases. The store owner had given them a discount because he learned some new stuff and would be able to make money from this new information. Tracy told me she'd promised William some tea and cakes in return for helping get our storage stuff home. I told the boys William could coach them up on the quest game for two hours after tea while I prepared dinner. William agreed to stay for dinner. I told the boys we'd play Dominion after dinner and William told the boys he knew of a few tricks he could share in that game as well.

“Here are our schedules.” Dylan said offering me his phone.

“I don't need to check them.” I said. “You boys did what felt right for you. I trust you guys. The purpose was for you to see what your day looked like and not to spend too much time on the game. Tracy can go over them if you're worried about having missed something. Leslie is available to help as well. Abby is her receptionist so you know she has good organizing skills. Make use of the people around you just don't over use them. Now go play your game with William. I have dinner to prepare.”

My housekeeper kindly agreed to help me with dinner. Tracy sent out a warning text that dinner would be rich and flavorful. Sophie responded by saying she'd bring a large spinach salad if I made the dressing. I agreed and set about making lasagnas with lots and lots of cheese. William was playing against other people so the boys could see how the changes to the settings he'd made improved performance. They also got to see the strategy he taught them in actual play. William ended up making a new friend when he agreed to call one game an honorable draw. The other guy told him he'd be happy to help the boys learn more. My housekeeper kissed me when we overheard the boys saying they wouldn't be spending too much time online because they had lots of other projects to take care of.

William offered to help us deliver the cakes in the morning. He told the boys he didn't think the big boss would mind him going in to work a little late. The big boss gave him a kiss on the cheek. Dylan warned him he might not make it in to work at all. Tracy told them tomorrow morning was safe because I had a ten o'clock appointment with Lao. The boys talked William into getting up extra early so we could have the muffins delivered when the construction crew started arriving at seven-thirty. Patricia still looked very sleepy when she let us into the warehouse at seven-fifteen. I popped across the road and bought her a coffee.

“We didn't mind getting up early.” Dylan said. “We only have three more days with dad so it's best to cram in as much as we can.”

“And let him cram as much as he can into us.” Morgan said.

The contractor was one of the first to arrive promptly at seven-thirty. I explained we needed to get back to the apartment to feed the boys but wanted to show him which treats were gluten-free. All of them got sweetened with a sweetener safe for diabetics. I'd also grabbed some herbs from Lao on Saturday night for the diabetic. Lao's business card was attached to the bag. The boys promised to deliver treats while I was away.

“Another inspection?” the contractor groaned as a city inspector arrived. “Why the sudden interest in this project?”

“There's the treats for one thing.” the inspector told him. “More importantly the owner of this project insisted we triple the number of inspections we usually did. He's very concerned about it being safe for the children. That's why we recommended you to him. This is also the only project where a pretty young lady greets me with a kiss. Good morning Patricia.”

“Hello Leon. Good to see you. Why don't you walk me through your inspection? We'll take a cupcake with us.” Patricia told him.

On my way to Lao I stopped to collect some bags I'd had printed with a copy of Lao's business card. This would save him from having to attached a business card to each bag. Lao was happy to consider it a donation towards the church. Tracy or my housekeeper would bring more over when needed. I told Lao I'd prefer to walk than sit down for our tea. We headed out with our ceramic mugs in hand.

“Rohan you need to know Genta is very close to leaving us.” Lao said gently. “He will most likely leave us while you are on your trip. Mu told me this morning he thinks Genta has another nine or ten days before passing on.”

“Mu is uncannily accurate in these predictions.” I said quietly. “Thank you for letting me know. I will make arrangements for him to keep his promise to the boys. On my way home I will stop at the school to arrange compassionate leave for the boys. Yes they still have some of that tea. I will arrange for my housekeeper to restock it. Weill if you want to change it I will let her know to get the new blend next Monday.”

“Will the boys stay at the monastery?” Lao asked.

“No. I think it best if they stay at the bed and breakfast.” I said. “This is a place with happy memories. They will want to attend the service for Genta which means one of their moms will need to go with them.”

“I will be there for them.” Lao said. “This man is a very special man so it is an honor to help him with a safe passage. There is a chi sequence we do at these times. I will teach it to the boys this week. You do know his secret don't you?”

“Mu shared it with me recently.” I answered. “When Daizan is ready he will step aside so his son can become Abbot just as Genta stepped aside for Daizan.”

“What promise did Genta make to the boys?” Lao asked.

“He promised to walk through the completed garden with them.” I said. “This will have to happen this weekend or he might be too weak to do it at all. I will book the boys into the bed and breakfast this weekend.”

“I will join them on the day and help Genta with some chi.” Lao promised. “Now we have an hour for me to teach you the chi sequence. There are some things you will need to buy. There are herbs you will not find in Poland. We will put everything together and mail it on ahead of you. I will teach Tracy this sequence tomorrow. Don't forget to include a picture of Genta.”

“I know the perfect picture.” I told him.

Lao had led us towards a very special store that sold all the ritualistic stuff we would need. I left with a large package under my arm. Lao handed me two bags of herbs to include in the package. He told me he knew ahead of time I would agree to do the ritual so he'd brought the herbs with him.

“No, I'm not here in response to the transition plan you sent Leslie.” I said when I met the principal. “I'd like to thank you for all your help on it though.”

“The boys should never have taken on such a workload.” she said. “The underlying issues need to be addressed when such a request is made by our students. I have my counselor checking to see how many others are avoiding stuff by burying themselves in schoolwork.”

“I'm sure it wasn't intentional and as long as the boys kept their grades up the teachers had no reason not to go along with their request.” I reassured her. “They most likely needed to lose themselves in schoolwork for a bit. Unfortunately I am here to arrange some compassionate leave for the boys. Next week Wednesday or Thursday a very dear friend of mine will pass on. The boys just met him and will most likely want to be there for his passing and to attend his service.”

“You're friend the monk?” she asked me. “I'm sorry. Even at that age it is still sad. Even with their workload your boys have somehow kept ahead so this will help them ease back. You will be away won't you? Leslie told me about your trip.”

“Their mom or my housekeeper will call to let you know. I am going to tell them after school so please don't say anything to their teachers now. Thank you for all your help.” I said. “Because of him I will still have a very good trip.”

I returned Leslie's call to assure her I was okay with the news Lao had shared. She wanted the name of the bed and breakfast because Abby had to meet Genta. Amanda said she'd meet me at the apartment for lunch. Sophie and J told me they could change their plans if it was important. Then I called Daizan to tell him a lot of people would be descending on his poor monastery next weekend. I laughed when he told me Leif had got Sanne to plan a bigger second garden at the monastery with lots of secluded spaces around a large open area. Mu added it was like a regular botanical garden. Most of the monks meditated out there now. There would be plenty of space for everybody to gather Daizan told me.

Tracy wept when I broke the news at lunch time. I told her we were taking a drive to the monastery tomorrow morning and would need something extra special for the occasion. Jonathan and Jill barely had enough beds for everybody. They were please to meet the special people in my life even under such sad circumstances. Tracy returned later with a special bottle of wine and some chocolates for them. Word soon went out to the gang that we'd be making reservations for everybody tomorrow. Tracy told them there weren't enough rooms for them to each have their own but we would ask Jonathan and Jill for the name of another good bed and breakfast if people wanted their own room. While we were waiting downstairs for the boys Tracy told me she might as well call for the name of a second bed and breakfast now because the entire gang was going to show up. Even Juliet had asked to go along.

While I held the crying boys Tracy calmly handed them a mug of tea. When they heard of our trip to the monastery they insisted on baking Genta some of his special bread. J went and collected the ingredients with Tracy. They also collected a rental car for us. J insisted we go down to see the car. The boys laughed then cried when they saw the huge barrel of olives in the back. Tracy told them she'd cried to when the store owner had said it was the biggest they had.

“The barrel is bigger than me and weighs almost as much as me.” Dylan said hugging her.

“He'll need lots of bread to go with that many olives.” Morgan said. “We'd better get started.”

The boys complimented Tracy on her choice of cars. Only the best for the new Rohan and his sons she told them as we entered the elevator. She had rented the car for two weeks to get a discount but also because the gang would need it on the weekend. I drank wine and supervised the baking. When the boys had put their six loaves in oven I got started on a half-dozen pecan pies. Now you know what Genta's favorite dessert is I told them. Petersen taught me how to take this dessert to the next level so he will help you bake them Saturday afternoon. I'll leave the list of ingredients with you. Tracy told them to check with the co-op near the monastery to see if they had all the ingredients. We have an account with them and they will deliver. My housekeeper said she'd call them on Thursday.

Tracy and Leslie were waiting for us at the car when we arrived in the parking area at six a.m. Leslie had to meet Genta and this was her only chance. My housekeeper was with her and told the boys she'd prepare breakfast while the boys got an extra hour of sleep. She knew we'd had sex before joining them which meant a very early wake up time. The boys had created a thank you card on the computer for Genta. We all knew a get well card wasn't appropriate. I insisted we stop for some mochas before we left town. I needed chocolate and combining it with espresso seemed perfect. Then we drove along in perfect weather. I made an effort to enjoy the sunrise. Tracy told me the vodka was so special and expensive she never got to sample it before purchasing it. Mu will make certain Genta is alert enough to enjoy the nuances I assured her.

There was a second bed and breakfast behind our regular one. The two of them shared a common garden area to help with the cost of maintaining the garden. Jill took us through the garden and introduced us to the owners. They told me they had one reservation for next weekend and let me book every remaining room. Tracy told her the others wanted to pay for their own room but to use my card to hold the rooms.

When Devon greeted us at the door to the monastery I pulled him out and kissed him hungrily with his back pressed against the wall. Tracy calmly went in and returned with a cart for the pecan pies, bread, cheese and olives. Mu was fetching Genta so no need to rush the pawing of your monk Tracy told me with a grin. Petersen was helping her unload the car. Leif was inside dusting a spotless kitchen. I walked straight to him and took the feather duster from his hand. When he turned around to see who had taken it from him I leaned in and kissed him squarely on the lips. Genta chuckled until Leslie, Tracy and me gave him the same treatment.

“I will have some pecan pie if Tracy supervised baking it.” Genta said. “Rohan the gods will be wanting a bigger bribe for a lady who knows her vodka so well.”

“Never mind how much it cost Daizan.” Tracy told him. “There are three more bottles and the gang will bring some more with them on the weekend.”

“The gang?” Genta asked. “Of course the boys will want to walk with me in the garden. Break some more of their bread on the table Tracy.”

The three of us took a walk through the gardens accompanied by Mu and Daizan. Leif caught up with us and led us to his garden project which was a replica of a local botanical garden in Genta's hometown. I kept the visit to the gardens short because Genta would be napping soon. Genta thanked me for staying out-of-the-way when it came to the garden. I smiled and helped myself to some more vodka. Much to his delight the previous assistants had been replaced. When we joined the monks for lunch Tracy made a point of kissing each monk for looking after Genta. She was particularly passionate with Daizan and Mu to the amusement of the others.

“One word of protest from you and I'll make that kiss look very plain.” I warned the startled pair. “The boys have a lot of kisses for everybody on the weekend so make certain you are here or I will hunt you down when I return. I will dispense much more than just kisses. Devon will do roll call at each meal.”

Before Mu led Genta away I kissed him soundly and thanked him for everything in front of the monks. Then I hugged him and let him go. Devon collected me and led me to the bathrooms. When I had regained my composure and dressed I stopped in to see Daizan and Mu. Daizan told me he'd speak with the boys when Genta was resting. I told him they will have red “The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying” before they arrived. Mu said Lao's chi work would be welcome on the weekend. Shortly after chatting with them we left for home.

Tracy told me instead of time alone with two sons this afternoon I could spend time with one of them and with the other tomorrow. Cook pot roasts in the slow cooker she told me so you don't have much to do tomorrow afternoon. Your sons love to cook with you she reminded me so do dessert with Adam. I thanked her for reminding me. She called on ahead to tell Dylan to meet us downstairs. My housekeeper had arranged for Sophie to cook dinner tonight. Roast chicken with all the trimmings. I drove Dylan down to the riverfront and we went for a long walk. He only needed to know I had said my goodbye to Genta and was at peace. Dylan smiled when I led him to an ice cream shack that served ridiculously large amounts of soft serve in a cone. Especially when you pulled the staff forward for a sound kiss on the lips. Dylan promised to spank me later tonight for being so forward.

Tracy headed off to Lao in the morning while my housekeeper packed my bag. No need to pack much because all of my new wardrobe would be waiting for me in England. I only needed a carry-on. Lawrence had insisted on the same treatment for Tracy. Her wardrobe was a gift from him and Richard for taking care of me. I cooked roast beef and Yorkshire pudding for dinner. Then I spent twenty minutes kissing and saying goodbye to the boys. We would kiss goodbye again at the airport.

When we disembarked in London a man in uniform approached us and asked us to please wait at the luggage carousel. Another man in uniform approached us and asked if we had any food or alcohol beverages in our bags. We told him we didn't and he led us straight through customs.

“Thank you, Uncle.” Garth said as he hugged and kissed me before kissing Tracy, Leslie and Ivan. Christopher greeted us with a kiss as well. Then they led us to the Underground. Tracy dragged my carry-on with her as I draped my arms around our two hosts.

“This is all ours?” Leslie exclaimed as Garth and Christopher led us into a townhouse. Four single multi-story townhouses formed the Trafalgar Bed and Breakfast around a common garden. Christopher asked me if I recalled telling them to reinvest my profits in expanding the business. The past five years had been good ones for the three of us. We had one of the townhouses all to ourselves.

“We can empty a second if this isn't enough space.” Christopher said calmly.

“Don't you dare of I'll have Tracy spank you both.” Leslie said. “Rohan you can share the top floor with Tracy. Thank you guys for putting the playroom in the basement.”

Leslie and Ivan insisted on doing unpacking after they'd seen our space. Ivan quickly closed his eyes when Tracy started shedding her clothes so she could try on some of the outfits Lawrence had ordered for her. Tracy looked gorgeous in her new clothes. They all insisted on watching as I tried on a new outfit. Garth and Christopher insisted it fitted perfectly. They dragged us out for breakfast.

I centered myself and dragged us all around London for a lovely four hours. I surprised Garth and Christopher by showing them new sights. We entered a territory run by a gang but I was too full of joy and glee to worry. I stepped forward and kissed the gang leader on the mouth. Then I hugged him and thanked him for doing his part to make London such a great place. There are always criminals in any city with character I told him leading him to a bar with my arm draped over his shoulder. Some souls have to play the role of bad guy in this wonderful Universe. Five minutes later I was buying him and his gang all a pint of bitters. Tracy calmly sat on the lap of one gang member and asked his opinion of her clothing. When he blushed and said she was the prettiest girl to ever sit in his lap she kissed him soundly. Leslie and Ivan laughed while Garth and Christopher looked on in stunned amazement. I left the gang with a fifty pound credit with the equally bemused bartender.

“There were only five of them.” Tracy explained to Garth when we sat down for lunch in another pub. “Far better to spend money on drinks than to have Rohan hurt them. His response to their aggression was so unexpected they didn't know how to respond. London does bring out a wonderfully joyous side to Rohan that violence would have marred.”

“Here we go again.” Leslie said from her seat alongside us.

“This is simply not fit for any human or animal to consume.” I said to our waitress. “Show me to the kitchen. I don't care what the owner says step aside or I'll spank you. Why not go get me a pint of good bitters? You do have good bitters don't you? That's a small mercy. Serve some to my friends while I chat with your chef.”

The chef and I got on well. I bought him a pint of bitters as well. He was correct in predicting the owner would show up soon while we waited in the kitchen. I chatted to the owner who wasn't all that friendly.

“What would you pay for this establishment?” I asked the head chef I'd been drinking with for the past ten minutes.

“”Eighty-thousand pounds.” he told me promptly. “Turnkey.”

“Are you willing to sell?” I asked the owner. “The deal is off the table when I finish my beer.”

The owner surprised me by accepting my offer. I told the head chef he was in charge and asked him to make our group a decent pastie if he wished to stay in charge. The owner gladly took the day off to wait for Frederick's call. I sent Frederick a text asking him to resolve the issue. On my way to the table I kissed our server and told her I was giving her an increase. Tracy and Leslie laughed at her expression when I said she got to choose how much of an increase she received. Garth smiled when I announced I'd bought the place. Christopher told me I hadn't changed much.

“My whole experience of London would be ruined if I happened to eat a bad pastie, Ivan.” I said. “The chef promised to make us a decent one now he no longer has to scrimp and save on ingredients. We may have to wait a bit while he sends out for some fresh vegetables. Let's play some darts.”

The chef got rewarded for his new improved pasties with a kiss from all of us except Ivan. In between turns at darts I chatted to our server. She got promoted and promised to upgrade the drinks to better brands. Keep the prices the same but serve a better brew I told her. Christopher and Garth gave her the names of the brews they liked. I told her to add a few of her favorites to the mix.

“You're a manager now.” Tracy said giving her a hug. The bartender beamed with pride.

“Any suggestions on how to improve the place?” I asked the bartender. He offered a few and told me he didn't mind his daughter being manager. I kissed his cheek. Tracy kissed his cheek and told him he was a great dad.

Christopher and Garth agreed to help by adding some more TVs and refurbish the place while keeping it true to its heritage. I gave them my phone number and told them if they found themselves in a quandary and unsure what to do they could call me. The chef said he was happy being left alone to cook. Leslie told him that was wishful thinking. I told him I'd be in to cook with him. Tracy told my new manager to order an extra cask of bitters. Christopher told her Tracy wasn't joking.

“No pub opens to serve breakfast.” Betty protested. “Yes we are near an Underground stop. Technically our license allows us to sell beer from six in the morning. We'll need more staff.”

“Good.” I said. “That will allow us to give more people work. We'll help as servers tomorrow while you conduct interviews. Place a notice on the board we will serve breakfast from six tomorrow. Bacon and beer sound good.”

Garth groaned and let his head rest on the table. Tracy ordered him another pint and kissed his cheek. When she told him I would only be here for four days he told her I hadn't been here very much longer than four hours and managed to turn things on their head. Leslie and Ivan sat back to enjoy the show. We stopped at the worlds largest bookstore on the way home. Garth and Christopher insisted on us having dinner at the B&B. Tracy said it was best I didn't buy more than one local business a day.

“Make certain the fish and chips gets served in newspaper.” I warned them when they asked what I wanted for dinner. The others agreed to eat in the garden so we took our food outside. A couple of twelve packs rounded out the meal. Other guests came out and ended up joining us for dinner. We kept up a steady stream of orders to the fish cart. Tracy made three trips with me to the local store to buy beer. Tracy reminded me we needed to chat with the boys at midnight.

“Hello, Rohan, my name is Tim.” a very cute boy said approaching me at around nine-thirty.

“You know the way?” I asked him calmly. I could guess he was my surprise from the way the others had retreated just before his approach.

The basement in our section of the bed and breakfast was a proper dungeon. I secured him to the ceiling and floor in the middle of the room. Once he was secure I pulled down his trousers. Stepping in front of him I kissed him and asked him questions. Tim was fifteen years old with a wish to learn more about being a gay submissive. I tied him off before sliding a vibrator in his ass. Then I left him there while I retrieved our lap top.

When I returned I slid my mouth over his cock and released the tie. Cum gushed into my mouth as I fondled his cheeks. Then began a two-hour session of edging. Spankings to get him aroused. Sucking and stroking to bring him to the very edge. Kisses while the passion subsided. The vibrator got turned on just before midnight.

“Hello boys.” I said calmly when they answered the Skype call. “Anybody else around?”

“Yes, our moms and your housekeeper.” Dylan told me.

“Ask them if they'll allow you some private time with me. We'll need about thirty to forty-five minutes.” I said.

“Okay it's just us.” Adam said a few minutes later. I could see they were in the playroom.

“Boys this is Tim.” I said turning the camera on my captive. “He is my London surprise. Tim these are my sons Adam and Dylan and Adam's betrothed Morgan.”

“Hello boys. Pleased to meet you.” Tim said between groans of pleasure. “One orgasm in two hours, Dylan. No spanking yet just the feather. Fuck I love it!”

“Dad will you show us his cute ass?” Adam asked. “Now tell us why you aren't fucking him?”

“I decided to wait until our chat.” I told them as I set the laptop on the table. The camera gave them a view of Tim from the front.

The boys watched as I stepped to the side and picked up a hairbrush. Standing next to Tim I began to spank him. The blows varied in their intensity and quickly warmed up his tight ass. The spread legs pressed his cheeks tighter together. I gave the boys one last look at his well reddened cheeks. Then I penetrated him. Getting my cock between those cheeks proved a challenge but I managed. Tim's eyes widened when the boys started shedding clothes and sucking each other. This only added to his torment as I fucked him.

I pulled my cock from him and watched as my cum trickled from his ass. The tie was still in place. Only when the boys finished did I wrap my mouth around Tim's cock and undo the tie. He tasted so good. When I finished swallowing his cum I told the boys about buying the pub. Tim said goodbye to the boys before I pulled on some pants and carried the laptop upstairs so they could chat with the others.

Moments later I returned to the basement. Tim's ass was wonderful. I made a meal of it for several minutes. Kissing the cheeks. Rimming him. Finger fucking him while I kissed his cock and balls. Slowly but surely I revived him. Fuck the boy had a very tight ass I thought as I slipped into him a second time. I took my time fucking him. Free of the tie he was able to unload when I started filling his ass. Glancing down over his shoulder I enjoyed the sight of his cum spurting from his cock.

“Christopher has shared my schedule with you?” I asked as I untied him. “Good. Tomorrow night I want you to sleep with me.”

We spent some time in the garden kissing and cuddling. Despite the early morning waiting for me I didn't want him feeling used. Tim thanked me for my consideration with a gentle kiss. I tiptoed past Tracy's room to mine a few minutes later.

The next morning I woke before any of the others. I left a note asking them to join me for breakfast at the pub and hopped on the Underground. Betty and her dad were opening when I arrived. She told us she could manage the front while we got the food started. A chalkboard outside announced us open for breakfast. Soon the bar was full of pleasantly surprised commuters. I left the kitchen to wait on tables.

“May I help?” a young lady asked me.

“Grab a tray and clear tables.” I said giving her a quick kiss.

She giggled but got on with it. I had just left the kitchen when she handed me three orders for breakfast. I passed them on to our chef and headed out to take more orders. Leslie and Tracy arrived and got roped into waiting on tables while I helped with the cooking. Resourceful Betty had placed an ad for a chef on Craigslist and unknown to us conducted interviews as we worked. She introduced Sam to us a few hours into our shift. I kissed them both much to the delight of our head chef.

Along with a pot of coffee we had to have a steady supply of tea. Ivan cleared tables for us. I kissed Leslie and Tracy as we wove between the tables. Finally at around eleven things got quiet enough for us to sit down. Brian, our head chef, and Betty sat down with us to discuss the morning. Betty told me the young lady who had offered to help me was Matilda. Along with Sam they were the two new staff members.

“Add twenty-five percent to the standard hourly wage.” I said to Betty. “Business is more consistent if you can keep staff long enough to form a relationship with customers. Then ask her if she knows of somebody in need of a job.”

“Thanks to our unpaid help we have had a great morning.” Betty announced with a smile.

“Good. I don't need to know the figures.” I said. “A good morning is one filled with fun. You and Brian can consider yourselves in charge. I will be visiting Poland and returning about a week later. You can call me in to help tomorrow morning as well if you need. Then I will be away. Best get the staff situation sorted out today. You have my phone number and can call me anytime you need. Frederick will deal with the accounts. Send him an email and he will call you back. I'm sorry if the time difference makes things awkward.”

Leslie was happy to let Brian know what her favorite British dishes were. She told him about the Bakewell pudding I'd made for them. Tracy listened and made suggestions based on her experience cooking with me. I played a few games of darts with Ivan. He was enjoying the dark British beer. Ivan found great delight in the fact I'd bought a business a few hours after arriving in London. Tracy kissed my cheek as she took the darts and said she was glad the train ride to Poland didn't involve any lengthy stops.

I sauntered off with Tracy while Leslie and Ivan went off to explore London on their own. Garth and Christopher had to know how I discovered parts of London unknown to them. They watched curiously as I grounded myself and used the bell mantra to expand out in a particular direction. Tracy felt the energy tug even if she didn't know how I did it. I let her lead the way. We came across some stores that Christopher said would be really useful in supplying their bed and breakfast with linens. I ambled along with an arm over Tracy's shoulders.

“Is there somewhere you can get cleaned up?” I asked a youth begging on a street corner. He didn't seem very happy begging.

“Yes, sir.” he said. “I don't make that much begging and it really doesn't feel good.”

“I noticed that.” I said. “Go see Betty at The Queens Lancer. Tell her Rohan sent you. They need somebody to help clear tables.”

“How much will you need to get a place to stay until your first paycheck?” Tracy asked. “The second hundred is for toiletries and any other stuff you might need.”

“Thank you so much. I'll spend it on a place. I promise.” he said accepting the tow hundred pounds she gave him. I told him we'd leave some more cash with Betty if she hired him. He told us he understood she had the final decision.

Tracy bought me tea and asked me about my time with Tim. I told her I'd know more after my time with him tonight. Physically he was an incredible boy. I needed some time to discover why the two local hooligans wanted me with him. We sauntered around London for another two hours. I led us into a bar where we watched a soccer game and enjoyed dinner. Then we took a cab back to our bed and breakfast. I asked the cab driver to take us along the Thames. Tim arrived at nine. I let him snuggle with me on the couch while we finished watching a TV show.

Once we were in my room we stood in front of each other and undressed the other. I kissed him long and passionately between each item of clothing we removed. My hands stroked his back and butt. They held his face still for me to kiss. They slipped down inside his pants to fondle his cock. Whenever he made to ask me something I placed a finger over his lips. We kissed often. I enjoyed seeing his body unveiled in the moonlight.

Reverently I knelt in front of him when he was fully naked. I kissed the underside of his shaft. Reaching out with my tongue I licked his balls. Letting my hands cup his cheeks and no more I sucked him. Combining my sucking with the gentle movement of my hand I worked on getting him off. When I had finished swallowing every drop I took him over my knees. A nearby hairbrush caused him to jerk and his legs to press against my right leg as it pinned his legs.

There is something inherently beautiful in a boy squirming on your lap. The arching of his back as the brush lands solidly on his cheeks. The cries of pain mixing with groans of pleasure and the blush of embarrassment as he became aroused. I made certain the brush kissed the full surface of his cheeks. On and on the spanking went until I knew his orgasm was imminent. The grinding of his cock against my thighs was a sure signal he would cum soon. I let him up and took him in my mouth.

Tim went back over my knees for another thirty minutes of spanking. I looked down at the deepening red and my cock twitched in delight. Although he hadn't uttered a sound tears were flowing down his cheeks. Seeing this I knew what Christopher had in mind in sending him to me. Laying aside the hairbrush I spanked him some more with my hand. Damn it felt so good to have the flesh of his cheeks in my palm. I blistered his ass enthusiastically and joyfully despite the awareness of his pent-up emotions.

Folding him in half with his ass at the foot of the bed I slid into him. While I fucked him I told him what a beautiful boy he was. How much I enjoyed spanking him. The exquisite pleasure of fucking him. A fucking that would go on and on and on until I'd pounded through the walls he'd erected inside of him. What Tim didn't know was my recent experiences with the mantras. I didn't know which one would be best so I ran all nine of them in a steady stream within me. My cock slid in and out and in and out. Tirelessly I fucked him.

We were fucking on our sides with his back against my front went his inner walls collapsed. I kept on fucking him with my hips as I held his upper body and kissed his neck. Instinctively I knew he needed both the fucking and comforting. When the tears finally came to a stop I rolled on top of him. Fucking an ass from above was a true joy of mine. I drove down into the mattress through him. Now that I'd held on long enough to help him it was time to help myself to my pleasure.

I changed positions three times before I finally came inside of him. Tim had climaxed in the second position and it was looking down at his cum splattered body that drove me over the edge. I humped him hard one last time and holding myself balls deep inside of him exploded. We lay next to each other kissing for several minutes. Tim got up and started reaching for his discarded clothing. I pulled him back on the bed and began spanking him again. A short spanking.

“I told you that you would be sleeping with me tonight.” I reminded him as we wriggled under the covers. Keeping my arms around him I snuggled close to him. “Good night and well done Tim.”

“Thank you, Rohan.” Tim said snuggling against me.

The next morning I was deep inside Tim's ass with his legs pressed against my chest when there was a knock on the door.

“Can't a guy bugger a cute British boy in peace?” I asked causing Tim to giggle.

“Thought a certain British boy buggerer would like to know breakfast will be in fifteen minutes.” Tracy said from outside the bedroom.

“Why so early? I've only had time to do him twice.” I asked keeping up a steady rhythm. “There won't be time for a spanking.”

“Spank him after breakfast.” Tracy said. “Don't be late or he won't be the only one getting spanked after breakfast.”

Tim was squirming in a mixture of pleasure and laughter as I pounded his ass. Sliding his legs around me I gasped in delight as he clenched down on me. Minutes later I groaned loudly as cum exploded from me. Slinging him over my shoulder I carried him to the shower. He blushed when he discovered we were the only two wearing bathrobes at the breakfast table. Leslie kissed his cheek and thanked him for making me put on a robe. Tracy told him it wouldn't have surprised her if I'd shown up at the table naked.

“Serves you right for serving breakfast so early.” I declared biting into my sausage.

“Ten o'clock isn't early.” Leslie told me. “Get dressed quickly we are going for a boat ride up the Thames.”

I insisted on Tim joining us because I was certain I'd feel like snacking on some cute cock. I also wanted to keep an eye on him after his emotional release. Tracy questioned Tim non-stop about his life in England. Tim bore up well. I dragged him into the bathroom for a blowjob to give him a breather. The things I do to help the locals ought to get more recognition. The boat trip ended at a small town with some wonderful gardens for us to explore. I bemoaned the lack of secluded nooks until Tim pointed out it bordered on a forest. Minutes later I had him bent over a fallen tree getting a good pounding.

“Now I know why the English countryside is so good for one's health.” I said as I fastened my pants.

“Where have you two been?” Tracy asked. “I've been trying to find you for ten minutes. Tea is about to be served.”

“I was buggering young Tim here in the nearby woods.” I admitted calmly. “He was showing me why the English countryside is renowned for its curative properties.”

“Well I doubt it is the traditional British wood that had your attention.” Tracy declared linking arms with us. “Do you think you can manage to keep your arms and lips off him for the two minutes it will take for us to reach the tea room?”

“Better up the pace and make it a minute-and-a-half.” Tim warned.

“Don't ask.” Tracy told Leslie as we approached the table.

“No need. That grin of Rohan and the low hand says it all.” Leslie said. “I ordered us lots of crumpets.”

Tracy deliberately sat herself down between Tim and me. I laughed and told her after my workout with my strumpet I needed to regain my strength with some crumpet. Tracy told Tim she'd gladly hold me down while he spanked me. Tim told her he was happy being my strumpet. I stuck my tongue out at Tracy. Walking through the gardens holding Tim's hand meant a lot to him. We even joined a soccer game taking place on the lawn. I scored a goal with a header which left me reeling for a bit. I impressed the kids so much they talked me into playing for another twenty minutes. Tracy and Leslie had a lot of fun cheering for Gramps. My second goal got disallowed because I picked the goalie up and tickled him while taking my shot.

We returned to the bed and breakfast so I could call the boys. They carried Daizan's laptop out to the larger garden where everybody had gathered. Tracy told Genta he looked very happy. Genta told her it was knowing I was out of the country and couldn't poison him with my cooking that allowed him to relax. Everybody told us the bed and breakfasts were wonderful. The monks had been very kind with their invasion for the weekend. Genta said it was a small price to pay to have the boys cook for them. Noticing Genta was getting tired and wilting I told everybody we had to go take care of things because our flight left early. The boys said they were going to visit with Daizan for a bit. The boys promised to thank Tracy and me for arranging the weekend. Sophie warned us it wasn't just the boys who would be thanking us.

Leslie insisted Garth and Christopher join us for dinner at The Queen's Lancer. Despite being run off her feet Betty greeted us with a smile. The young man we'd helped told Tracy that Betty was letting him stay in the small office to act as a security guard. Betty told him he could show us the space if he was quick. There was an attached half bathroom, a fold out bed and a desk. Tracy told him to keep the one hundred pounds as an emergency fund or for school supplies when he started college. I told Betty she needed an office computer and Garth told her he'd bring over a spare TV for the room when he delivered the computer. We told Betty we'd move on because it was so busy but she insisted we stay.

After dinner we did move on to a quieter bar in a hotel that overlooked the Thames. Garth and Christopher told me the bed and breakfast was doing well. Even with the purchase of the new buildings there was a tidy sum accruing in my bank account. I'd forgotten about it or I could have used it to buy the bar. Christopher told Tracy there was more than enough to buy the bar in my local account. Garth told her I could have bought two of them and still had money left over. He explained I hadn't spent any of my profits from the bed and breakfast in the past ten years. Left alone to gain interest it amounted to a tidy sum he explained. Tracy decided she needed another drink and ordered a double.

This time it was Christopher who commented on me being silent. I told them we'd chat more next weekend which didn't set anybody at ease but that was just too bad.

“Our flight to Prague leaves just before eight and we arrive just before eleven.” Tracy said to Christopher. “Then we hop on the train at eleven-thirty and arrive in Katowice at four-thirty. The train schedule from London was too much of an adventure and would have meant spending time overnight along the way. Normally we wouldn't mind but we don't have much time this trip. Rohan might loiter when he returns with the boys.”

Glancing meaningfully at my arm draped over Tim's shoulder Christopher suggested we head back. The hotel suggested we take two cabs because there was seven in our party. Tracy vowed revenge on the others when they told her she was traveling with Tim and me. She relented when we got back and she discovered the others had a brandy and soda waiting for her. Garth went up to my room to help Tracy pack my bag. I had arrived with an overnight bag but was leaving with an extra suitcase. Lawrence had put my new wardrobe together from stores in London. Garth and Christopher had enjoyed doing the shopping for both of us.

Christopher told me he'd have the clothes I was wearing cleaned and waiting for me on the return trip. Tracy was also told to leave her clothes in her room. They agreed we could chat about business next Sunday. Tim promised Tracy he wouldn't keep me up late. She made Leslie promise not to keep Ivan up late either. Tracy decided to go for a walk before bed and gladly accepted Christopher and Garth's company. When I kissed Christopher goodnight he whispered to me they'd keep Tracy out for an hour.

Standing at the foot of the bed I kissed and undressed Tim. I thanked him for making my stay in London extra special. Tim expressed surprise at the sincerity in my thanks yous. Despite what Christopher had told him he believed I'd just think of him as young fuck. I kissed his ear and told him I had to drive such thoughts out of him. A good thing they left the hairbrush out I said squeezing his ass. Tracy had knowingly left a small paper shopping bag out next to the bed. I laid Tim down and took out the four silk scarves from the bag. Extending his arms out I tied his wrists to the bed frame. Then I folded his legs back toward his chest and secured them to his forearms.

Stepping to the side I admired the view of his naked body. The curve of his legs and tautness of his ass was stirring a hunger in me a lot faster than I'd anticipated. Tim was tall, lean and toned and tonight he was also mine. I knelt on the bed next to him. Leaning down I kissed him and told how hot he looked. How much I wanted to bury my cock in his ass. He agreed he deserved another spanking for making me wait through this spanking. The first blow landed while our lips stayed locked. Pressing my lips harder against his I kept them locked through the next three solid smacks.

There was no escape from the blows as they rained down. Tim's ass reddened quickly. I stopped kissing his lips and took his nipple in my mouth. Now that I'd worked up a nice glow in his ass I wanted to hear his cries of pain. Maybe even a cry of pleasure mixed in as I suckled at his breast. Tim jerked beneath the firm blows for another several minutes. Then I fucked him with the handle of the hairbrush.

“Somebody said something about being a young fuck.” I said as I slipped around to kneel before his blistered ass. “Only one of us is young and it isn't me.”

“Do I get to fuck then?” Tim asked impishly through his dried tears.

“Fuck no! Your ass is mine.” I said plunging my cock into him. “All mine!”

Despite his bonds Tim arched his back and pressed his ass up to meet my thrusts. I leaned forward compressing him further. Dipping my head between his legs I kissed him hungrily. While I fucked him he received a running commentary of all the pleasure I was feeling. The physical and emotional. Tim responded by sharing his feelings and emotions in return. We even shared every sensation of our orgasms until the pleasure caused us to dissolve into inarticulate groans and gasps of pleasure.

Keeping my softening cock in his ass I reached over to untie him. Then I slung him over my shoulder and carried him down the passage to the shower. Tracy was just reaching the top of the stairs and calmly told me she'd left the cream out on the handbasin. She told me to give her a thank you kiss in the morning.

“How did you manage to resist such a cute ass long enough to spank it?” Tracy asked winking at me. Poor Tim couldn't see the wink.

“Trust me it wasn't easy.” I said with a smile.

“Must be love.” Tracy said as she entered the safety of her room.

Tim couldn't believe it when I knelt to suck him. I'd just licked a load off him after our fuck. Young cock full of sweet cum in my hands will find its way into my mouth I told him. Besides it gives me something to do while I grope your cute ass I said licking his balls and shaft. Speaking of ass I tormented him by interrupting his blowjob to rim him for several minutes. How I loved listening to a young man beg me to suck his cock. He promised to let me fuck his ass in the morning if only I'd swallow his load now. I gladly sealed the deal by taking him into my mouth and keeping him there until he fed me his sweet load.

“You know me too well.” I said calmly to Tracy still on my knees in front of Tim.

“Save some for tomorrow.” Tracy said holding out a towel.

“I did. I saved his toes for my sunrise snack.” I said accepting the towel. “You are the greatest personal assistant in the world.”

“Right now your assistant's person needs some rest.” Tracy reminded me. “The two of you do as well. Thank the gods we are having breakfast at the airport.”

The next morning after sucking him I fucked Tim while he knelt on all fours. Reaching between his legs I stroked him and fucked him back to full arousal.

“Do you want to?” I asked as I leaned over his back.

“You mean? You're not joking?” Tim asked in surprise. “Yes, please. Gods yes.”

Still wanting him to know who was in charge I knelt astride him and slid myself down his cock. Feeling him pulse in my touch passage was fucking amazing. Clenching my teeth I leaned slightly forward and drove my ass firmly against his balls. Tim squirmed and writhed beneath me. You'd swear he was getting fucked and in a sense he was. I wanted his load in me but even more I wanted him to get me to cum. Bottoming from the top I clenched my ass intermittently and varied the angle. The pace varied. I worked him over for a lovely long time. Ignoring the voices in the hall I kept on fucking Tim.

“Shall we tell the others to collect you next week?” a voice from the hall said inside my bedroom. “You have five minutes to finish then we'll be in to dress you. Come on Christopher.”

“Must we leave?” Christopher asked. “Damn that's hot. You know it's Tim's first fuck?”

“All the more reason to leave them alone.” Garth said leading a reluctant Christopher from the room.

“Five minutes miscreant.” I reminded him. “Relax into it! Breath deeply. Oh fucking hell yes! Yes! Yes!”

Cum erupted from me to land on Tim's chest, neck and face. The sight of it spurting from my cock was so hot. Tim must have thought so because he started filling my ass with his cum moments later. I rushed licking him clean. Christopher stood guard over us as we showered. When Tim told me he'd rather say goodbye here I scooped him into my arms and kissed him on the doorstep. He promised to call me. Garth told me it might take him most of the week to come down off his high. Leslie and Tracy congratulated him. They gave me a quick kiss for suggesting it and allowing it.

“Glad somebody appreciates my sacrifice.” I said as we walked away. “Riding him was sheer hell. You have no idea how much I suffered.” Swat! Tim's laughter was the sweetest music. When we got around the corner Garth handed me a handkerchief to wipe my eyes.

The conspirators made me get off the Underground before Heathrow. They led me The Queen's Lancer where breakfast was waiting with a pint of fine British beer.

“Relax and enjoy it.” Tracy told me. “We got you ready an hour earlier than needed. I knew you wouldn't bother to check the time if we kept you moving right along.”

“Tim certainly had him moving along nicely.” Christopher said tucking into his breakfast.

Betty sat with us for a few minutes observing the new staff. She told me the lady I'd hired for her was doing an amazing job. A week from now and Betty told us she'd have her run the breakfast shift. Christopher said he'd ask his dad if he knew of any good young chefs to help when Betty expressed concern about our one chef working such a long day. Sam needed time to reach the level of assistant chef. That still left them a chef and an assistant short. Let me know if you need help I told them. My staff can look after things for the last few days in Poland if they must I explained. All I need is three days to check on the land, buildings and farmers. I also gave them Petersen's number if they needed somebody for a couple of weeks. He'd be able to find them a decent chef.

“Don't forget about Julian.” Tracy told them. “The boy we sent to you from the street corner. Surely he can help with the basic stuff.”

“Christopher on your way back would you mind looking at the kitchen and seeing if you can upgrade some of the stuff? You have access to my local bank account. Spend a little of it.” I said. “A deep fryer with a timer would help Julian with the fries. Different color timers to help him keep track of different dishes. Maybe matching each timer with the cookware would help. Also a probe with an alarm for roasts would be great. He could also use it for steaks. Nobody objects to a thicker steak and even if it's the same weight it looks more impressive.”

“Betty, if you wish to save yourself from a spanking switch to free range organic meats.” Tracy advised her. “Rohan is very big on this and organic foods.”

“No more than a five percent increase in price when you switch and only if you have to. Petersen can teach you how to calculate things online. When he's done getting the monastery in order I'll send him over. The two of them deserve a holiday.” I said. “I'll bear the extra cost of the organic ingredients by adjusting the profit-sharing. This is a principle thing.”

“Profit-sharing?” Betty asked. “What profit-sharing?”

“Christopher will explain. I haven't had the time to tell you this is mostly a worker owned business now.” I said noticing her dad listening intently from behind the bar.

The staff gave me three boxes of chocolates for the train ride. Christopher confessed to letting them know what my favorite British brand was and how much of them I could put away. I kissed him on the cheek. Betty burst out laughing when I kissed her dad on the cheek while shaking his hand. A little impertinent but not too bad he told me when I said he had raised a fine daughter. We arrived at the airport with enough time to get an Irish coffee. The kind staff of the airline said they'd text us when we needed to board so we could have coffees with our friends.

“Do you know Tim waited three years for you?” Christopher asked me. “We offered to ask you for some names but he insisted on waiting. Garth gave him a few spankings so he'd appreciate you more.”

“Three years?” I said taking another sip of my Irish coffee. “Hope I was worth the wait?”

“Only Tim can answer that question and I owe Tracy a drink.” Garth said. “Last night she predicted your response.”

The airline staff were pleasantly surprised when I handed them each a latte even if I did forget to mention it was a flavored with vanilla and whiskey.

“Maybe you should have warned them about the whiskey.” Leslie said as we took our seats.

“They told me earlier they enjoyed an Irish coffee but their boss might not like seeing them drinking one at work.” I told her. “This way the vanilla will help hide the smell of the whiskey on their breath and it looks just like a regular latte.”

“Besides it will help them feel good about the day.” Tracy told Leslie. “Yes, I am as bad as Rohan. Maybe you should spank us both Mom.”

Leslie swatted us both on the head with a rolled up newspaper. A boy in the seats across the aisle giggled. Once the air hostesses had made her round to check we had our seat belts fastened I undid mine. I winked at the boy who giggled but said nothing.

“Tracy do I look so drunk I need strapping to keep me in my seat?” I asked her when we were airborne. “Then what possible reason do I need for that belt? Lawyers use the word liability just to make a nuisance of themselves and give themselves an illusion of power over me. They can wear their belts if they want. I won't stop them. Here comes our lovely hostess. Allow me, Tracy. You look a little pale for some reason. My personal assistant is a little unnerved by flying could we please have a couple of Irish coffees without the coffee, cream and sugar? Thank you.”

“Cheers!” Tracy said. “They are much more accommodating in business class of eccentric old geezers. No Rohan I don't want to look at the countryside below us. That's why you have the window seat. I can enjoy it with Google Earth on my smart phone.”

Tracy insisted I keep my seat belt fastened for the landing or she'd borrow Leslie's newspaper and spank me with it. I stuck my tongue out at her. The boy across the aisle giggled. Tracy asked why I couldn't be as well-behaved as him. I told her because I didn't have to. One of the few freedoms left to us ancient folk I declared.

“What now?” I asked. “My seat belt is fastened.”

“They don't work if you are sitting on them.” Tracy said. “You wear them over your lap not under your butt. Please, do it just for me.”

“Of course I will.” I said calmly securing it snugly over my lap. “All you had to do was ask. I will take a kiss for my ready compliance though. Kissing a handsome ancient man like me might help calm your nerves.”

“What ready compliance? I don't care how ancient and handsome you are you don't deserve a kiss. Stressing me out like that. You're lucky we are strapped in.” Tracy declared taking the newspaper from Leslie. “Thank you Leslie. I will remind this old geezer there are safety protocols in place for a reason.”

“You can stop now.” I said with a smile as she smacked me about the head with the newspaper. “We've landed.”

“Really? When did that happen?” Tracy asked startled.

“Sometime between the sports section and the comics.” Leslie said retrieving her newspaper.

“Nicely done Rohan. You deserve more than one kiss.” Leslie said. “Tracy he saw how nervous you were on our flight to London. Why do you think he was fooling around with the seat belt and ordering you a whiskey? Rohan cares about you too much to miss these obvious signals.”

“You'll get the other when we're on the train, Boss.” Tracy told me as she kissed me. “We only have forty minutes before it leaves and we'll need twenty minutes to get there.”

I was pleasantly surprised me managed to catch our train. Our taxi driver told us we were lucky it was a Sunday morning and there was very little traffic. The fifty dollars Tracy promised him if we made it might have played a role in us making the trip in record time. Bram went on ahead and slipped a twenty to the conductor to hold the train a couple of minutes for us under the guise of shaking his hand. I agreed with Leslie it was a lot cheaper than spending the night in Prague. Tracy kept her promise of a second kiss as we settled in our compartment.

We enjoyed some of my chocolates with some coffee. Next stop Katowice I thought to myself. This felt really good. Tracy asked if my smile was because the chocolates were so good. I told her it was a combination of Katowice being so close and the gang spending the day with Genta. Leslie asked if I had any regrets about not being there for them when he passed. Their moms will help them through and they will understand Genta wouldn't have wanted me to cancel my trip I told her. Yes it would have been nice to be there for them but it wasn't to be.

The food on the train was surprisingly good. A couple of bottle of wines helped us enjoy the scenery a little more. Because we enjoyed our lunch so much we decided to have dinner before we arrived. Eliasz was the only one waiting for us when we arrived.

“There will be time enough tomorrow for everybody to greet you.” Eliasz said. “Be warned though Leslie there is little doubt Tomek will want to say hello before he leaves for school. We'll drop off Rohan and Tracy first.”

Our hotel was an old building built over a hundred years ago. Eliasz assured us that unlike him the hotel had recently been completely updated. The best part of the older building for me was the spaciousness. People certainly knew how to stretch out back in the twenties. Leslie wasn't leaving without greeting Sanne and Bram who had rooms on the same level as ours. Tracy said it was sensible of them to choose rooms diagonally opposite us.

“We hoped you'd come say hello but we know it's been a long trip.” Sanne said. “You can help us finish our wine.”

Wine in hand we strolled back to my room so we could set our luggage down. There was a spacious dining room and living room area between my bed and Tracy's room. I loved the balcony with a table and chairs. The city was beautiful at night. Even though I felt tired and eager to crawl into bed I called Daizan.

“I am very tired.” I said when the boys joined in our chat. “There's no sense in going to sleep without chatting to you scurvy knaves or I'd spend the night worrying.”

“You're only tired because you dallied with Tim so much last night and this morning.” Tracy said hugging me. She shared the extra knowledge we'd discovered about Tim with them. “Go on Rohan tell the boys if Tim thought it was worth the wait? There was a text from him waiting when we got on the train. What did it say again?”

“Tim was polite enough to say it was worth the wait.” I said blushing.

“His exact words were 'Too fucking right it was worth it. Pun intended.'” Tracy said with glee. “Tim sent me a copy of the message.”

“He'll be getting a very polite spanking when we return to London.” I vowed.

“That's most probably why he sent Tracy a copy.” Leslie said.

“You are planning on taking us on a field trip when we visit London together aren't you Dad?” Dylan asked.

“More like a field strip.” Tracy said really enjoying herself. “Rohan said something about the British wood being very healing.”

“You must have misheard, Tracy.” Morgan said. “I'm sure he said getting your wood in a Brit is very healing.”

“Or getting some British wood in Britain.” Adam offered.

“Rohan covered all the bases.” Leslie said. “He did you boys proud.”

“We appreciate you not embarrassing us.” Dylan said somberly before bursting into laughter.

“Genta is resting.” Adam said suddenly serious. “We had brunch and will have a late lunch today. Yes, Tracy, we told him how he had inspired Rohan to become such a great dad. Genta said it was easier to turn him into a good dad than a good cook. We told him we'd give you lots of opportunity to practice your cooking.”

“Petersen helped us bake some pecan pies for lunch today.” Dylan said. “Leif is getting ice-cream to go with them. This might be another day when I gain three ounces. Don't stay away too long Dad or you'll have to work really hard to get me back down to size.”

“That's enough boys.” Sophie said. “Say goodnight to Rohan because it looks like he should have gone straight to bed. I know he wouldn't and I'd have called you as well. Good night everybody. Thanks for the call.”

“Good night everybody.” the boys chorused and blew kisses at the camera.

Tracy said goodnight to me on the balcony and told me not to stay up too late meditating. She tossed a sweater at me on the way to her room. I slipped it on and settled in to run through my mantras for a while. The simple realization of being in Poland was enough to make me smile. Yes the businesses were exciting and getting to meet new people always made me happy but being here to experience the energy of this proud and ancient land was wonderful. When I finished my meditation I felt more refreshed but got into bed anyway.

A gentle kiss and the smell of coffee woke me the next morning. Tracy set a cup down next to the bed. I sat in bed enjoying the first cup. Then I slipped on a robe and we had our second cup on the balcony. Sanne and Bram joined us and I suggested we order breakfast from room service so they could fill us in. I took a shower and got dressed while we waited for our food. Sanne complimented me on my new clothing.

“No trip to Switzerland would be complete without visiting Sepp Holzer.” Sanne began after breakfast arrived in our room. “Kazimierz was like a little boy. The three of us couldn't keep up and we let him run around the farm. We chatted when we sat down for lunch. He had lots of good ideas. Natalia made notes for us later that afternoon.

We spent another two days there visiting a farm each day. Sepp was really the only one we needed to visit but it was good to see how to adapt the techniques to different sites. Bram helped Kazimierz outline some plans on copies of a map of the land. Where to build swales and ponds and where to place the vegetable beds. We spent our last two days in Switzerland sightseeing.”

“I have some of the drawings with me.” Bram said. “We can look at them after breakfast before we go meet Ivan and Leslie.”

Based purely on feeling I used a different color pen to draw in another pond and an orchard. Tracy said the garden on the map looked more organic and comforting than her image of a farm. There were trees, plants and vegetables covering the land with simple curving paths to walk through all of it. The only area of organization I could see was a structured herb garden near the house. Tracy loved the idea of needing a map to find pockets of vegetables scattered throughout the garden. Sanne told us we'd better get moving because Tracy was starting to get as excited as Kazimierz.

Bram called down to the front desk to see if our rental car had arrived. They told us the rental company had just called to say they were on the way and apologized for it being late. I assured the harassed driver he had timed it perfectly because we had just arrived downstairs. He smiled in relief. We gave him a generous tip. Tracy told me I couldn't give him a thank you kiss much to his relief. Before he left I called his boss to say he had done a great job getting the car to us right when we needed it.

“That's to replace the kiss Tracy won't let me give you.” I said to him. “Enjoy your day.”

Bram entered the address of the meat shop in our navigation system and we were soon on our way. On the way over I chatted with Tracy about her plans for the day. She told me she'd like to find a herb shop and see about purchasing herbs for our Polish patients. I asked Bram how far out-of-town the farms were. He told me it would take us about forty-five minutes to get to Kazimierz' home. They had arranged for the architect and engineer to meet us on the farm tomorrow morning at eleven.

“We'd like to go out there this afternoon if you don't mind.” Sanne said. “I'd like to bring back some soil samples for more testing now I have an idea of the garden layout. Kazimierz will have marked out the areas for the ponds and pathways and it would be helpful for Bram to see if there are any obstructions to move or work around.”

“There's nothing I need to do on the land this afternoon that I cannot do tomorrow and having people present to answer my questions at the same time would be best.” I said. “Tracy and I will go find a herb shop this afternoon. Tracy can teach me all about them while she puts the blends together. Please drop us off a block from the shop so we can sneak up on them. I'd like to get a sense of the energy as I approach the building. There's no point in delaying you guys further by having them get hold of you.”

“We'll meet you back at the hotel later this afternoon.” Bram said as we climbed out of the car. “Thank you for letting us sneak off.”

“You're welcome.” I said.

Standing on the inside of the sidewalk I took Tracy's hand in mine. Slowly I grounded and allowed myself to feel the energy of the city around us. Glancing down the street I could see somebody sweeping the sidewalk in front of the meat shop. There was a flower box running the length of the shop window. Thick, dark wooden beams contrasted starkly with patches of fresh whitewash. There was a palpable sensation of peacefulness coming from the store. I smiled when I noticed there was a chocolate shop two doors before the meat shop. I dragged Tracy across the street. She smiled when she saw where I was leading her.

“Excuse me, would you help answer a question I have?” I asked a young lady who was holding the hand of a girl who looked about eight years old. “Does this shop sell good chocolates?”

“Oh, yes it sells very fine chocolate.” she said as the little girl nodded her head vigorously.

“Good. Do you have time to step inside to show me your favorite chocolates?” I asked. “Thank you. You might have guessed I am not from around here.”

“They'd have to be dead not to notice.” Tracy said taking the little girl's hand in hers.

The little girl's eyes got very wide when she saw all the chocolate I was buying. Tray explained there were some friends of ours in the meat shop who would help us eat them. She agreed it still might be too much so it would be best if they helped us by eating some of it. I told them guiding me to a good chocolate deserved a reward as I handed over four boxes of their favorite chocolate.

“Your friends sell very good meat.” the little girl said after she'd thanked us for the chocolates. “We just bought some meat from them.”

“Thank you I will tell them you had kind words for them.” I said as I hugged her. “Enjoy the rest of your day.”

The young lady was outside wiping down the window box so I handed the chocolate to Tracy and slipped quietly up behind her. Before she could see my reflection in the window I swept her up into a hug.

“Hello, Judyta.” I said as she gasped. “How are you?”

“Hello.” Tracy said holding open the door so I could carry Judyta back inside the shop.

“This young lady was working too hard.” I declared. “She needs a break and somebody to kiss her. Any volunteers? Thank you Feliks. I'll see if I can steal a kiss from this fine lady while you kiss her.”

“Nobody has wanted to kiss me for a very long time.” an elderly lady said as I kissed her cheek. “Thank you.”

“Good luck getting him to stop kissing you now.” Leslie told her.

“You must be Ivan's mother Alenka.” I said. “Thank you for sharing your son and your family with us. Beautiful children are proof of beautiful parents. Will you dance with me at the wedding? Thank you. My sons will be very jealous. I will have to fight them off.”

“He's right. They are as bad as Rohan when it comes to kissing people.” Leslie said. “May I help you prepare some tea, Judyta? Looks like Rohan has discovered the chocolate shop.”

“A young lady and a little girl helped us pick out the best chocolates.” Tracy said and shared our meeting. “The little girl said she really enjoyed the meat from this shop.”

“They are very kind.” Alenka said. “Twice a week they help me with my housework. I live in the old apartment we all shared before Judyta moved into this fancy new place. Tracy I'd love to show you my home after tea. No it isn't far.”

“Do you know of a herb shop, Alenka?” Tracy asked. “A place that sells good medicine. I don't want any herbs with chemicals. This is for Rohan's medicine.”

“They're for our friends, Mama.” Ivan explained. “The ones we brought the land from. When did you want to go there, Tracy?”

“We were thinking this afternoon so I can prepare the blends tonight.” Tracy said. “Tomorrow morning we are meeting Kazimierz and Natalia at the farm and I was hoping his uncle could come over and collect the herbs for the two ladies.”

“I will call and arrange it.” Feliks promised. “Wincenty will want to join you tomorrow morning as well. Sabina sells the herbs you want and if she doesn't have them she will tell you where to get them.”

Tracy told Judyta we would be happy to wait and meet Tomek before we headed off. We may need him as our guide I told them. Ivan told me he'd allow me to kiss his mom again if I made some of my Polish bread for lunch. Judyta told me there were some sausages set aside for our lunch. I put Tracy in charge of making us a thick, spicy Polish tomato sauce. Rohan is all about imagination Tracy explained when Judyta asked if she was Polish. Judyta agreed to sample the sauce and offer suggestions. This helped Tracy relax.

“He's absolutely crazy which is why we are traveling with a trained psychologist.” Tracy added kissing my cheek. “You won't believe the trouble he caused at the airport and on the plane. Sneaking whiskey into coffee for airline employees and refusing to fasten his seat belt. Mayhem.”

“Then there was the trouble we had getting him to the airport.” Leslie added. “Yes, Rohan, those two British hooligans deserve to take some of the blame. Dangling such a cute boy in front of you was asking for exactly what we got.”

There was the sound of footsteps rushing up towards us. A head appeared above the top step and that was all.

“I think I see the very handsome Tomek. Are you going to stand there all day or are you going to come and give me a kiss?” Tracy asked kneeling and opening her arms.

“Me first.” I said intercepting him and earning a swat on the butt from Tracy. “Fine we'll kiss him together.”

Tomek squirmed a little but endured his kisses with good grace. Tracy led him over to the stove to sample her sauce. I gave him a slice of bread with a thick layer of butter. Ivan was handing out samples to the others. Before he handed out the bread Ivan ate half a slice. Leslie thanked him for making certain it was edible before offering it to the rest of them.

“Now I understand why Ivan wants you slipping spices into the food at your feast.” Judyta said. “I'm glad the sausages and sauce are ready because I need to have more of that bread.”

Judyta told Tracy her sauce was perfect. We all enjoyed a lovely, simple lunch. Leslie had gone out before we arrived and bought some fresh spinach for me to have alongside my sandwich. Ivan had enjoyed showing her around the neighborhood. Tomek did his homework while I toured the shop. Ivan assured me this was as close to a replica of his shop back home as we could get. The coat of arms on the stickers that sealed the paper around the meat they sold was genuine. Obviously it hadn't been safe to display this under the communist government but now they felt safe enough to use it. Leslie had talked him into using it back in America. Tracy suggested I get myself a coat-of-arms. Her idea was two page boys bent over a shield with their pants down and crossed paddles instead of swords. I pretended not to see the huge grin on Leslie's face. A distinct sense of foreboding descended on me so I had another shot of vodka.

“You have a lovely home, Alenka.” I said when we arrived at her apartment.

“Too much space for one old lady.” Alenka said. “Look how empty this balcony is.”

“You need a grill out here.” I decided quickly. “Some containers with vegetables to go with the meat you are grilling. Good idea, Tracy. We'll get Alenka some cooking herbs as well.”

“This will be my gift to you for agreeing to let your son marry me.” Leslie said when she protested. “I'm certain Tomek has some friends who will enjoy your cooking.”

“What else do you enjoy doing Alenka?” I asked. “Would you like a reading area?”

“She knits very well.” Tomek said.

“My fingers ache if I do it for very long.” Alenka said.

“Tracy will fix that for you.” I said kissing Tracy's cheek. “Let's wait until we are at Sabina's store before we call Lao so we can tell him what herbs she has. No bother at all. You see I have these three unruly boys who torment me and I'd rather pay you for their socks than some big company. A sweater or two would be nice as well.”

On the way out we bumped into an elderly neighbor. Alenka introduced us. I insisted on treating the two of them to a dinner on me. Feliks told me the two of them got together once a week for dinner and a game of cards.

“Where do they eat?” I asked. “There's no dining table in Alenka's home. I'm glad the neighbor has one but Alenka deserves one for herself.”

“I'll call your decorator and get the name of that furniture store.” Tracy said with a smile.

“No need it is on the way to the herb shop.” Feliks said. “Tomek will show you. Yes it would be best if Judyta went with you and translated.”

Tracy took hold of Tomek's hand while I held Alenka's. Her neighbor grinned and said something that caused Judyta to blush. She refused to translate it for us. Feliks laughed. Judyta swatted his butt. Tomek grinned and led us towards the shops.

When Tomek told the sales assistant who I was she quickly rushed off to fetch the manager of the furniture store. I introduced him to Alenka and told him we needed a dining room furnished. Alenka told me she had plates and cutlery. The first hutch I showed her was too big. They would fit in the one to the right of it she assured me. We learned there was a dining table and chairs made from the same wood as the hutch.

“Where were you going to feed Tomek's friends?” I asked Alenka when she protested. “You will have to pay for all this furniture. I expect at least three kisses. Tracy will need three as well. Do you think you will enjoy eating in that dining space? I am certain Feliks, Judyta and Tomek will enjoy visiting.”

“Your neighbor as well.” Tracy said accepting her kisses. “You are very welcome. I'd love a sweater from you when your hands are strong enough. Thank you, Alenka.”

“We will have to visit to test your new grill before we leave on Saturday.” Leslie told her. “Ivan will start complaining if he has to go much longer without Rohan's food. Do you mind if we came over for dinner on Friday? I'd love to chat some more with your neighbor.”

Sabina was a lovely lady. Her energy blended in perfectly with the herbs. There were herbs in glass jars and herbs hanging from the rafters to dry. I loved the place. There was no doubting my sincerity when I complimented her on the shop. Tracy spared her from more blushes by showing her the list of herbs she needed. Then she called Lao. Judyta translated for Lao. Sabina supplied all the herbs for Alenka's tea and a tea pot for brewing the tea. Tomek carried it for his grandmother.

Alenka told me I was going the wrong way but I told her she needed some knitting supplies. They have some very fancy knitting needles for people with sore hands I told her. Tomek told me he didn't know magic knitting needles existed. Judyta told me if they did she'd like some as well. A little over half-an-hour later we were ready to leave with a couple of bags of yarn, a Silver Reed Sewing Machine and a heavy metal stand. The store didn't mind the two ladies taking a break from the lessons I'd bought them both when I explained about the wedding. They could get in two lessons before we left. Tracy linked her arm through Alenka's and promised we would stop to buy some vodka on the way home. Alenka told Tracy there was a fine liquor shop on the way home.

Everybody laughed when I had Tomek tuck one end of the stand under his arm and hold it off the ground. Then I picked the stand up in the middle. A startled Tomek found himself lifted off the ground with the stand. Ivan spoiled my fun by slipping under Tomek and letting him sit on his shoulders. Tomek kept his arm around the stand with the other end resting on top of my shoulder. We made such a sight the owner of the liquor shop asked us if we really needed more vodka.

“That crazy man has bought me a set of dining room furniture, a knitting machine with lessons, a teapot, herbs to heal my hands and a holiday to America.” Alenka told him. “What do you think?”

“We usually just buy it by the case.” Tracy said when he asked how many bottles we'd need. She impressed him when she asked for some by name. “Which one would you prefer Alenka? Good. Rohan has only been here for one day and you have seen how much damage he does. Alenka a case won't be enough for the week. Leslie plans on buying you stuff for your balcony as well.”

“Rohan bought a business when we were in London so he's easing up a little.” Leslie shared with Alenka. “I think he has plans to buy another when we go back though.”

“The only reason he isn't buying one while he is here is because he bought it before he arrived.” Judyta said. The owner said he would carry the vodka around to Alenka's home when Judyta gave him the address. He joined us for a round before returning to his shop.

Judyta listened carefully as Tracy told her how to prepare the herbs for her mom. She promised to call if they had any questions. The dining room furniture would be delivered tomorrow morning. I disappeared with Tomek for a few minutes and returned with two big grass baskets to store the yarn in. Judyta asked me if I had got a good price for the boy in the basket. They are offering such a good price on boys there was only one left or I'd have bought one for each basket I told her.

Leslie and Ivan wanted to spend the rest of the day with his family but asked us to fetch them in the morning. Ivan gave Tracy instructions about getting back to the hotel on the bus. A four block walk would put us at a stop for a bus that run just a block from the hotel. He told us the restaurant in the hotel was very good. Judyta gave us the names of a couple of good restaurants if we wanted to get out of the hotel. On the ride back Tracy told me it had been a lovely day.

Tracy explained all about the herb blends for the patients and outlined the different stages to the healing protocol. The results of the blood tests would determine when the protocol was changed. She told me it could be anywhere from four to six weeks. Sabina had told Tracy she could supply the herbs for the next two stages as well. Feeling quite happy with things I ordered us some tea and pastries. Then I settled on the couch with a book I'd bought in London while we waited for our gardeners to return.

“Don't I have enough to do Rohan?” Sanne asked with a grin when Tracy told her about Alenka's container garden project. “That old lady needs some more plants in her apartment. Cooking for the boys will be good for her.”

“I am glad she can have friends over as well.” Bram told me. “You are a very generous and caring man, Rohan. That is why it will be our pleasure to buy dinner tonight.”

“Thank you Bram. Let me get us some more tea and pastries to enjoy while you tell us about the farm or garden. Sanne I keep getting confused. Okay if you say it is the size that makes it a farm then I'll call it a farm.” I said.

Bram had taken pictures which helped the scribbles on the map make more sense to me. A lot of the labor would be provided by the animal farmers. I conceded they could hardly put in any of their hours looking after plants before the plants were in. Sanne told me Lawrence had shown her how to use the design software before they left so it was no trouble to show us the garden in 3-D.

“That's incredible.” I said when she finished.

I asked her if she could show me the garden with a few changes made because it felt better to me. Sanne smiled but went along it. She told me all the changes I'd made wouldn't hurt so we could keep them.

On our way out to the restaurant I stopped at the front desk to ask about printing a photograph. The clerk told Tracy if she emailed him the pictures the hotel could take care of the rest and add it to our bill. Sanne pulled me away from the counter before I could kiss him.

“Missing Tim are you?” Tracy asked as we walked to the restaurant.

“Don't ask.” I said when Sanne asked who Tim was.

“Too late, Boss.” Tracy said with glee and proceeded to tell them all about my shenanigans with Tim. When Tracy mentioned how the field trip became a field strip Bram laughed so hard we had to wait while he caught his breath. Finally we made it to the restaurant. The one we chose served traditional Polish dishes with an emphasis on meat. The food was delicious. Our waiter told us Poland was playing an international soccer match that evening which was why it was quiet in the restaurant. I asked for a good place to watch it. Tracy told him the name of our hotel and he directed us to a bar two blocks from it.

Bram and Sanne's accent softened the locals attitude. I overheard somebody mention Wincenty so I gave him a description and discovered I was talking to one of the animal farmers. Tracy sighed and predicted a long night. She was wrong because the farmer had to get up early but we did have a lot of fun. When he spread the word about what my sons had done we couldn't pay for a single drink. I did buy us all some gear to show our support of the national team. Sanne was happy to support Poland because they weren't playing against the Netherlands. Poland scored a late winner which set off three rounds of celebratory drinks. Tracy said she'd be more careful the next time Bram offered to buy her dinner. The kisses had been fun she admitted.

“I don't do drunk.” Tracy told the boys indignantly. “I'm tipsy!”

“A pity I'm not there to be your tart.” Morgan said.

Sanne laughed and suggested he get her tipsy at the wedding.

“You've done enough getting me tipsy in Poland.” Tracy said. She explained about the locals buying us drinks because of them.

“Glad to help.” Dylan said with a smile. “That will be six kisses, Tracy.”

We carried the computer out to the balcony so the boys could see Katowice at night. Tracy updated the boys about our day and our shopping trip. They were glad to hear all the medicinal herbs were available. I promised we'd chat longer tomorrow night. We'd have more to report after our meeting with the engineer and architect. My housekeeper told me it was her turn to sleep over with the boys in case Daizan or Mu called. Amanda would stay with them tomorrow night and Sophie on Wednesday. They told me they knew they could call me at anytime.

Tracy thanked the gods we didn't have far to walk when it came to seeing our guests home. Upon our return she told me one more round of vodka wasn't likely to do any more harm. She felt differently the next morning. This time I was the one placing the coffee next to her bed. I told her she'd feel better after the coffee. Tracy told me she appreciated the whiskey in her coffee when she came out in search of a second cup.

“This project must have you really excited if you are up and dressed so early.” Tracy said kissing my forehead. “I can see how a project involving the boys would be extra special for you. I'll take a quick shower. Then we'll go drag the other two out for breakfast.”

Bram and Sanne were also having a rough time getting going. I promised the three of them they'd feel better if they let me order their breakfast. Bram told me he was happy not having to make any decision for an hour or three. We chose the hotel restaurant for breakfast. The three of them looked at their plates dubiously. You can have a second round in a few minutes I told them but it will be the same ingredients.

“Why do you have potatoes and toast on your plate?” Tracy asked. “Okay I will wait until we are in the car for you to explain. No it can't be simply because you don't have a hangover. Why don't you have a hangover? You drank more than us and more than you've drunk in a long while.”

“The mantras are good for many things including preventing hangovers.” I shared.

“Considering the price the mantras asked of you I'll stick with hangovers.” Sanne said.

The three of them felt surprisingly better when we left the restaurant. Alcohol like starch is mostly sugar so by sticking to proteins and fats for breakfast you help balance your blood insulin levels I explained. A little tincture for the liver helps but it would take longer to show this sort of improvement I told them. Leslie told us she had some sausage sandwiches in the basket for our mid-morning snack. Bram flinched slightly when Ivan mentioned he'd slipped a bottle of vodka into the basket as well. I told Leslie she'd understand when I told her about our night.

Ivan directed Bram to a lovely clearing surrounded by trees where we could eat our sandwiches. The others had recovered enough to accept a round or two of vodka. Bram complimented Tracy on her tomato sauce. The architect and engineer were getting out of their car when we arrived. Before we examined the house and barn Bram took the engineer through the garden. Bram thought we needed a few retaining walls. His trust in the plants roots holding things together wasn't as strong as Sanne's faith. She agreed with me that it wouldn't hurt and if we used organic materials they would become features of the garden. The engineer suggested four retaining walls throughout the garden. Bram was about to ask for a fifth when he saw Sanne staring at him with a penetrating gaze. Wisely he decided four were enough.

“How long will it take for you to get the plans, licenses and permits from the city?” I asked the architect when we finished our inspection. “In other words how soon can we get started with the construction?”

“Two days for the ones we will need to begin construction and another two for the remaining ones.” the architect told me. “Thank you for the invitation. We'd love to join you for lunch.”

“Ivan packed a very special sausage.” I said to Natalie who kindly agreed to let me take over her kitchen. “I bought some bread before we left town because I didn't know what you had on hand. Lunch will be a sausage stew. Should be done in an hour.”

“We also bought some wine when we got the bread.” Tracy said with a smile as she placed four bottles on the kitchen table.

We woke Emily, my decorator, but she told us she didn't mind. She called us back after a quick shower to help her wake up. Tracy took pictures of the plans and emailed them to Emily. A short while later we were looking at a 3-D model of how it would look. Bram made a couple of changes that he said just didn't feel right. One more because it didn't look right. Then I asked Natalie and Kazimierz if they were happy with the home.

“Apart from it being too big no other complaints?” I asked. “Good. How long will it take to complete?”

“Four to six weeks.” the architect said. Bram nodded agreement.

“Three crews could get it finished in two weeks, Rohan.” Bram said knowing how I'd felt about Elaine's cottage. “Starting Thursday and allowing an extra day or two the work could be completed by the third weekend from now.”

“Sorry it will take so long, Natalie. I'd like to have it done by next weekend for you.” I apologized.

“Rohan six weeks would have been fine. Thank you so much.” Natalie said hugging me.

“Bram you get to decide on the bonus for getting in done in time. Be certain they know I will not accept it being done a day later. A bonus for early completion plus full pay for two weeks.” I said. “Emily the contractor will be in touch to discuss the fixtures and finishes within the next day or two. He'll call at a more reasonable hour.”

Wincenty told me the feast of thanks would be held tomorrow night on one of the farms. We couldn't bring anything or contribute. Ivan told me they were even insisting on paying full price for the sausage. I asked if it could be early in the evening and explained about Genta being very ill. Wincenty told me the farmers would be grateful to get to bed at a decent hour. He also told me I was welcome to arrive early to take a tour of some of the farms. I told him I'd like to see three of them tomorrow and the other three on Thursday or Friday.

“Room service.” I mumbled from beneath the covers the next morning.

“Shower.” Tracy said flinging back the covers.

“Where's the sunlight?” I mumbled swinging my feet to the floor.

“Waiting for you to get showered. Go on!” Tracy said. “I'll get your clothes out.”

I blessed the gods we could grab some coffee from the hotel kitchen on our way out. Tracy wanted to see the city at sunrise for some strange reason. I found myself enjoying this early morning walk once the coffee started to kick in. We discovered a lake. There was some incredible architecture in the city. I spotted Judyta leaving a bakery so we rushed over.

“Again?” she asked as I swung her off her feet.

“Blame Tracy for us being out at this ungodly hour.” I said with a smile. “Do you mind if we join you for coffee? Show us what you like from here and we'll get some more.”

“Rohan can eat a lot.” Tracy said when Judyta offered to share what she'd bought. “We'll want to take some back for Sanne and Bram.”

“Get it on your way back to the hotel so they will be warm. The bus stop is just around the corner.” Judyta said. “I'll show you when we leave. The shop is just two blocks from here. Rohan the cheese goes well with the buns. That's why they have it in a bakery.”

“I suppose the smoked sausage goes well with the cheese and buns. Would Feliks and Ivan be insulted if we brought some home?” I asked her.

“No, they both love it. Tracy we don't make smoked meats because we don't have a smoker. Rohan the Polish people love their smoked meat. One small smoker would make almost as much money as the rest of the shop brings in. A pity we don't have one.” Judyta explained.

“Yet.” I said turning my attention to the smiling middle-aged lady who was ringing up our purchases. Leaning forward I whispered in her ear. She beamed and added the local equivalent of $20 to our bill.

“What? Why did she add that last amount?” Judyta asked as we left the store.

“Rohan told her he was paying for the next $20 of business.” Tracy said hugging me. “Getting him up early has its rewards. Is that our bus stop over there? Good.”

“Please be quiet.” Judyta said as she slowly opened the door. “I wanted to surprise everybody. They are still asleep.”

Judyta grinned when I whispered my plan. I quietly woke Tomek and picked him up in my arms. Slowly I inched open the bedroom door listening carefully for any sounds from within. Tracy was right on our heels. I peeked past the edge of the door to make certain the two lovebirds were under the covers.

“Good morning!” I shouted tossing Tomek on the bed.

“Rohan? Rohan!” Leslie shouted as Tomek bounced up and down on their bed. “I can't reach Rohan so I'll settle for this scoundrel.”

“Help! Rescue me!” Tomek pleaded.

“Why do you think I tossed you on the bed?” I said with a sniff. “I 'm getting some coffee and hot buns with cheese.”

“And smoked sausage.” Tracy added. “Judyta says the sausage is really good.”

“That smoked sausage?” Ivan asked brightening as he tickled Tomek. “You'd better get ready for school quickly or there will be none left, Tomek.”

Judyta told him we had plenty as he scampered back to his room. Tomek told Judyta he wasn't getting tickled again so she would have to wake Feliks. Leslie remarked how it was usually me who ate breakfast in a robe. Thank Tracy for me being dressed I told her. Tomek thanked me for having the feast early because now he could join us. He also thanked me for the sausage. Feliks thanked me as well and told Tomek to give me a kiss from him. Feliks told us Tomek could take the bus to school from the stop by the bakery so we headed out with him.

“Decide where the smoker is going.” I said over my shoulder. “Speak to Eliasz and order it this morning. Feliks and Ivan will explain it to you Leslie. Please make certain they get the biggest the space allows.”

Tomek rode on my shoulders all the way to our hotel. He continued on and waved until the bus turned the corner. Tracy texted Sanne as we made our way up the stairs. Coffee arrived and the waiter promised to deliver more in twenty minutes. I shared our morning with Sanne and Bram while Tracy transferred her pictures to her laptop. There was a great picture of Tomek bouncing on the bed. A couple of him getting tickled. Lots of wonderful shots of the city. Tracy modestly said Lawrence was a great teacher. She kindly emailed the pictures to the boys.

I enjoyed being able to linger over coffee. We looked at the garden and house again. Tracy emailed both of these images and some other files to the boys with a note to call Emily or Lawrence if they needed help viewing them. Bram told me to let it go. You won't get it built any sooner without paying much more than it's worth he insisted knowing exactly what was troubling me.

“Please call and ask Ivan and Leslie if they'd like to join us for an early inspection of the animal farms, Tracy.” I said feeling restless. “We'll buy some picnic food and spend some time exploring the countryside.”

On the drive we called and arranged for Wincenty to meet us at the first farm. Ivan spoke in Polish but he spoke very firmly and kept glancing in my direction. When I climbed out of the car and looked at the buildings I smiled broadly. Wincenty told me all six farms were pretty much the same. My smile grew. Tracy put her head in her hands and groaned.

“All six of them.” Leslie mumbled in a subdued voice.

Ivan told Wincenty the processing side would need upgrading to meet international health guidelines if we were going to export meat. I walked up to the middle-aged couple waiting for us and chatted with them. The others watched in amazement as the man returned from inside his house with three glasses and we toasted. I got kissed on the cheeks by the beaming lady. The man shook my hand while he wiped tears from his eyes.

“This won't take long at all if all six are like this.” I said. “Well don't stand there we have five more farms to visit. We'll follow you Wincenty. Lead the way.”

“Spit it out, Boss.” Tracy said. “The suspense is killing me.”

“Rohan upgraded the processing facilities and the home.” Ivan guessed.

“I'm certain the contractor will give us a good deal on the homes if he gets the other work with it.” I said. “The lovely couple were happy to pay me back from their share of the profits. I'm pretty certain with all the incentives to foreign businesses our profits will be very nice. We'll get a fair rate of interest on the loans. I will sign as guarantor. Eliasz will make some more money teaching the farmers about bank accounts. He may need to talk the manager out of reducing our interest rate too much. Tracy we want the bank to make money as well.”

Tracy called the architect to arrange a meeting for Friday afternoon. Wincenty had told her it was fine to take pictures so we'd be able to show the architect what the homes looked like. Ivan told us he would know without the pictures because they hadn't changed for hundreds of years. I chatted with Eliasz and promised him a bottle of vodka for his trouble. Bram told me if I bought all the materials in bulk I would get a good price. He knew who to call in Amsterdam and was pretty certain they would know somebody reputable in Poland. Tracy didn't need me to ask her to call the architect again. The contractor will be sitting in at our meeting she told us minutes later.

“How will we ever get you to take a vacation, Rohan?” Leslie asked. “Yes we all knew this was likely to happen but you haven't had hardly a break since we left. Sunday we will fly directly back to London as early as we can. You can have two hours at The Queen's Lancer to check in with Betty and speak to Garth and Christopher. Then you are relaxing for the rest of the day until our flight leaves.”

“The boys need to come out here and meet everybody.” Tracy said. “Now that he has all the business sorted out that holiday will be relaxing. The boys have a school break coming up soon. Let's see if we can split it between Rohan and their moms.”

Leslie decided that was a wonderful plan. There would be some business to take care of but mostly it would involve checking to see the changes I got started now were finished to my liking. I liked the idea of showing the boys London and introducing them to my friends, the new bar and above all Tim. When all of this was finished and the wedding was done I was honest enough to realize I would need a vacation.

Wincenty joined us for lunch and took us to a lovely area by a river. Might as well get to all six today I told him. We only have another two and it doesn't take long for the owners to agree to our plans. My Friday was filling up fast with a visit to the bank in the morning and the architect in the afternoon. Three hours later we were on our way back to farm number four where the feast was being set up. Bram immediately joined the men cooking meat on the spits. I slipped off to see how they baked the bread. Natalia came over to say hi and told me all about the clay ovens. They were made with what we called cob back in America. She spoke with great joy about helping her grandmother prepare food in such an oven when she was little.

Drawing all the other ladies into a huddle I whispered and pointed to Natalia. They grinned. Nodded vigorously. Refused to take the money I held out and insisted we share some vodka. A bemused Natalia got included in the toast. There was a rapid exchange in Polish but she looked just as bemused when he ended. Tracy came over to check on me. She told Natalia it was best just to trust these wise ladies. Natalia agreed they were sensible, practical women who wouldn't be involved in anything outrageous. We made our way over to where the men gathered around the meat. Large pots of root vegetables were simmering on the coals. Bram was learning a lot he could use at the fire pit back home. Ivan was happy being his interpreter. I found a bench beneath a tree and watched the preparations.

Wincenty came over to sit with me. He thanked me for helping the farmers get new homes. I told him about the plan I had hatched with the ladies to give Natalia a cob oven at her home. He told me she would not know until work began on it. Wincenty asked me if I knew that the materials for the ovens could also be used to build houses. I told him I'd red a few books on such homes. They were very nice homes from what I had seen. Yes I would honor the farmers wish to build cob homes for themselves. Wincenty in turn honored my request for updated appliances and modern conveniences like running water, plumbing and electricity.

“Do you know the addition to Kazimierz' home will be cob?” Wincenty asked me as he refilled my glass.

“No, I didn't know they were planning to use cob.” I told him. The structure seemed too big and it was two levels. “How can you use cob for something that big?”

Wincenty explained the only reason it worked was because of the slope. The lower level was in effect a basement that led directly to the outside. The floor for the upper level would be made of wood thick enough to support the weight of the cob walls. A retaining wall and drainage system would divert the rain to the garden before it came into contact with the walls. The covered porch would act as a bridge over the small gap between the retaining wall and the house.

Natalia had joined us and told me by matching the paint on the existing building where they lived with the color of the plaster it would look like one structure. They would continue to live in the tall structure they lived in now. The cob area would be for guests or when they held meetings with the farmers. Wincenty told me it would be where I stayed when I visited. That is why we allowed you to spend so much on the furniture and appliances Natalia told me with a smile.

Natalia told me the building they lived in looked like a medieval keep because it offered defense against raiders. There was a well in the basement. The upper level had been to fire down from and the meal preparation and treating the wounded took care on the middle landing. Poland had not only had to face invasion from outside but during rough times people formed gangs to raid farms or merchant warehouses. This had been going on into the last century Wincenty told me. I loved learning about Poland. They were proud of their country and were eager to let me know all sorts of interesting places to visit when I returned with the boys.

Tracy was dispensing as many kisses as she was taking pictures. Nobody was safe from a kiss or having their picture taken. The children also got tickled. She took our picture because Leslie needed proof I could relax. Tracy told me she expected to see me sprinkling herbs and spices into the pots. I told her I wanted to get an idea of how the locals flavored the food. Then I would use it as a base to expand my repertoire. Everything smelled delicious.

Feliks arrived after they had closed the shop for the day. Tomek ran over and jumped into my lap to greet me before bouncing off to go run with the other kids. A few minutes later Tomek returned with the other kids to take us over to the tables. These simple folk were not much into ceremony or long speeches. The plentiful food and drink conveyed their gratitude. I felt honored being quietly accepted into their family. Eating good simple food with a minimum of seasonings was a pleasant change for me. Personally I liked layering flavors so this meal proved a timely reminder that there were other ways to create a tasty meal.

Before they started clearing the plates I walked around the table with Ivan at my side to thank each of them for their generosity and compliment them on the food. Unknown to me Ivan grinned as I calmly took each shot of vodka offered to me and drank with the farmer. Earlier Bram and Ivan had warned the farmers not to try to get me drunk because it would cost them a lot of vodka for no reward. Part of the reason Wincenty had come over to sit with me was to keep my glass filled. When I completed my circuit Bram raised a glass to me from across the table. I raised a hastily refilled glass in return completely ignorant of what was going on around me. Tracy, Leslie and Sanne were always grinning at me during social events so this didn't give the game away either.

Tomek's bedtime was the tacit signal for us to head back. The six farmers insisted on one last toast before we climbed into our cars. Tracy hugged me as we drove away and told me she was so proud of me. That's when I learned about the plot to get me drunk. Ivan asked me to share how I stayed sober despite drinking so much. Like everything in life it is about choice I explained. I can get drunk or I can stay sober and enjoy the festivities I elaborated. The mantras help fix the intent at the start of the event and everything else gets shaped by this intent. Before I go to sleep I will meditate to release, relax and give my body time to realign itself so in the morning I can wake up fresh I told them.

“Tomorrow we will need to visit the farm.” I said drawing Tracy close to me. “I thought of Genta once tonight. Clearly in the midst of the meal. There is no better place to receive the news and do the ritual Lao taught me.”

“Tonight then?” Tracy asked sadly.

“Before sunrise back home.” I predicted. “Leslie I don't want to call the boys because I might be wrong.”

“You'd never be wrong about this.” Leslie told me. “Hand me your fancy phone and I'll call the monastery.”

We heard her chat to both Daizan and Mu for a few minutes. The she called Lao. Finally I heard her talking to Sophie.

“You know about the chanting the monks will do for Genta?” Leslie asked me. I nodded. “They are getting ready to start it. Daizan and Mu will offer to teach the boys the mantra. This is why you heard me say it was their decision. Because of Genta's fondness for the boys they will wait for the boys to arrive before starting. Lao is doing chi work on Genta to compensate for the delay in the start of the chanting.”

“We should call the bed and breakfast.” Tracy said reaching for her phone.

“No need. Jonathan and Jill promised to keep the two connecting rooms available for the entire weekend for the boys.” Leslie said. “They also texted the daily combination to the front door so the boys can let themselves in. The keys to other empty rooms will be left out as well if anybody else goes with them.”

“My housekeeper will.” I said quietly. “Leslie I am feeling sad for the boys. The chanting is incredible and such a healing experience for the person passing on and the people behind. That is why the monks do it. What you give is always returned. This is one of the most heartfelt moments of giving in anybody’s life. The boys will be sad until the chanting kicks in.

Daizan is honoring the boys. They only allow monks to do the chanting. My guess is he is using their training with Lao to include them. When I get back I will be surrounded with nuns, monks and abbots. No, Tracy, that isn't always a bad thing.”

“What rank are you?” Tracy asked. “No, I'm not buying you don't know. Daizan didn't just decide on a whim to share the mantras with you or include the boys. You have told me of your research into almost every scripture and religious or esoteric school of thought. Rohan you have been at this for a quarter century. Somebody as smart as you will have made a lot of progress in at least one if not several spiritual traditions.”

“Tracy's right.” Leslie added. “You know she won't let it rest. I'm also curious.”

“Prelate.” I offered.

“Too vague.” Leslie said just as I feared. “Give us the closest orthodox Christian church equivalent if your highest rank is in a mystery school. Tracy it would not surprise me if Rohan has a high rank in two or three different traditions.”

“You're going to force this from me I guess.” I sighed. “Cardinal.”

“Holy crap!” Tracy exclaimed. “Sorry your Reverence.”

“I'll spank you.” I growled. “Cut that out Ivan. All that title means is I know a lot of information about church stuff. I'm still the regular guy you bet they couldn't get me drunk. How much did you win? A whole pig will make a lot of sausage. Glad they thought it was worth it.”

“May I ask what tradition?” Leslie asked me in her usual voice.

“A very old Christian tradition strangely enough.” I said.

“You're kidding. How old? Jesuit old?” Tracy asked in awe. “Here I thought you were joking when you called yourself ancient.”

“The Jesuits aren't very old.” I said. “What if I told you the order I belong to would call my title Grand Master instead of Cardinal?”

“Freemason?” Tracy asked. “No. You would need something with greater depth. Templar? Knights Templar? Really?”

“Yes and no.” I said. “Officially what I am about to share with you never happened. The leader of the Knights Hospitaller and the leader of the Knights Templar refused to merge the two orders when asked to do so. Well they refused publicly. What was not made known at the time was the two orders had already began merging twenty-years earlier. In modern parlance the Templars provided some muscle and a lot of financing for the Hospitallers. They found quiet, out-of-the-way places to continue their studies and run the financial network they had created over the previous one-hundred-and-fifty years.

When the King of France led a mass persecution of the Knights Templar he failed to attach any importance or get suspicious when most of the knights rounded up and tortured were old or ill. There were a few brave young knights who volunteered to get arrested. Maybe there were enough of them to divert suspicion. Anyway this was a wonderful opportunity to disband without any suspicion. The Knights Hospitaller kept their numbers up so nobody would miss the ones that had slipped away. They helped Templar knights escape persecution when it spread beyond France.

The monks who merged did so to create a new charter. One that didn't restrict them to purely Christian studies. Eliminating heresy allowed them to learn from the Muslims. They could study at Muslim universities. Travel as scholars throughout the reconquered Holy Lands. They still kept their vow to defend Christendom but now had greater freedom about how to do it. A few made their way to Asia. Their love of learning was matched only by their curiosity.”

“Sounds like you are the perfect fit.” Tracy told them. “How did you find these monks?”

“They came looking for me. Seems that down through the centuries my bloodline was of valuable stock as they measure these things. They got terribly excited when I said they could take blood to do some DNA testing.” I explained. “When I sought refuge in the monastery they took this as a sign. They watched me for five years and approached me shortly after I'd left the monastery. The Templars had been the first bankers in Europe and had held some wealth from my descendents for a number of centuries. I agreed to let them keep a third of the interest if they gave me the modern equivalent of what had been deposited with them. They added a clause that I would study at one of their colleges for five years. I still study with them. Accepting promotions gave me access to different levels of information so I worked my way up.

They made me Grand Master five years ago Leslie. What this means is I get to settle squabbles between them which they cannot resolve. Yes you could say instead of the absent-minded professor I really was the absent-minded priest. This impression of being absent-minded was more about having a lot to keep track of. The corporate office allows me to meet with businessmen who are actually members of our order. There is a chapel deep in the building where we meet to perform services and ceremony. I prefer to do ritual out in the open but some of our members enjoy staying out of sight.

There you have my religious credentials in a nutshell. Tracy the boys will choose their own path. They will be given the option to attend one of our colleges. The degrees don't hold much weight in the modern world so we usually set them up with loans from our own reserves. The business in Poland will give them a head start or keep them out of trouble if they choose to go mainstream.

I will use the chapel to perform our ritual for Genta when I return. Nobody will know the Tai Chi sequence I do tomorrow is a funeral sequence so I can do it out in the open. Besides I want to meet anybody here who does recognize it.”

“Can you tell me if Garth and Christopher are members of your order?” Tracy asked. “I suspect they are from the way the groaned when you said certain things needed to be done. There was no protest at all. Leif and Petersen are members of your order as well. The restaurants are perfect cover for traveling. Let's face it your stereotypical undercover agent is never gay.”

“Garth and Christopher are both brilliant students of healing.” I said. “They did the DNA test on me. The Hospitaller path is the one they work on expanding. Their area of focus now might be of interest to you, Leslie. They are investigating the potential of cellular awareness and its link to the mind or God-mind. Tim is a possible recruit but I never ask. They tell me when it becomes time to make this decision. Sometimes people follow our path without knowing they are walking it.

Leif knows something of the healing arts but his love for gardening won out. Petersen has a brilliant business mind. That is why he will be setting the profit-sharing for the bar in London. By now you've guessed this is just to give them some cover when they visit old friends in England.”

“How do you keep track of everything?” Leslie asked me. “You're always so busy with the boys.”

“Lots of staff members take care of the details.” I said. “When I get a sense that something is wrong in a particular region I make some calls. Like the body scan Lao taught Tracy except with the business. Sometimes when trouble erupts in a country all I have to do is call and hear a specific voicemail message to let me know they have closed shop for a bit.

I'm a caretaker with a fancy title. Being a dad for the boys helps me be a dad to this order. Genta has influenced two schools way more than he knows. Christopher is having a lot of fun following his DNA trail. I am hoping to surprise Daizan with some important piece of information from this work.”

“Aren't you meant to swear us to secrecy before sharing this stuff?” Leslie asked with a smile.

“Oaths, promises and vows go on forever. I shared this with you because I trust you.” I said. “You won't go blabbing about it to anybody. Besides if the boys are ever approached because something happened to me you will be able to share this with them.”

When we dropped Leslie and Ivan off at the meat shop Leslie said she'd call her travel agent friend about a flight to London early Sunday morning. I admitted I'd rather use the local agent but other things will occupy us tomorrow. Feliks told me Eliasz had access to our funds and would arrange it for us when I explained about Genta.

“Can you? Would you? You know.” Leslie asked me with her hands on my shoulders just as I was about to get into the car.

“You are certain you want me to do it?” I asked her.

“Don't make me one of the few people able to say they've spanked a Cardinal.” Leslie warned.

“Leslie, I am deeply touched and more honored than I can express. Yes, I'd love to officiate at your wedding.” I said taking her hands in mine. “Thank you for asking me.”

Leslie hugged me from the front and Tracy slammed into me from the side. Sanne hit me from behind seconds later. Tracy threatened to sit in my lap and kiss me all the way to the hotel. Thankfully she didn't carry out this threat. Yes I do have fancy clothes for such occasions I assured her. They hang in the chapel so they smell fresh I assured her but you will see them when I show you the chapel. Tracy told me she felt way too excited at the thought of seeing the chapel than she ought to feel.

“Have a nightcap here with Sanne and Bram.” Tracy instructed me. “I need some privacy in our room. Don't worry I will join you for a drink soon. Please keep him here Sanne.”

Minutes later Tracy returned with a huge smile. Despite the heaviness of Genta's passing her joy was infectious. I was glad to see her happy. When we received the news of Genta's passing she could be sad I told myself. The three of them gave my hangover breakfast another test the next morning. Eliasz was waiting at the meat shop when we arrived. He offered his condolences on the imminent passing of my friend. While he was doing this Feliks took delivery of the smoker. He promised I would get to try some smoked meat before we flew to London.

Tracy made a note of our appointment with the bank manager at eleven tomorrow. Eliasz thanked me for making the time to call on him. Alenka and her neighbor were going out to dinner on me tonight. She was so thrilled about her dining room furniture. Sanne told him she'd take care of the containers and grill tomorrow with Bram's help while we were in our meetings. Judyta told me if I gave them a list they'd go shopping for me. I stepped inside to thank Ivan and Feliks for putting up with me and my request for the smoker.

“Hello Daizan.” Tracy said just as we were approaching the turn to the farm. “Let me double-check with Rohan. He says the feed is secure. Nobody will be able to hack in and we will turn off the sound. Some of our friends would like to watch. I will call you on Skype when we arrive.”

“Rohan do you vouch for the people with you?” Daizan asked me when we called him back ten minutes later. I could see he was in the empty meditation hall.

“I vouch for all of them in my official capacity and with the full weight of the office.” I said somberly.

“Then you may leave the sound on. The boys have agreed to join us in our chanting.” Daizan said with a sad smile. “You should all hear them.”

Daizan walked across and opened the doors. The monks all filed in. Then the three boys entered wearing simple white clothing in the Chinese style. Around their waist was a slender red sash. Lao followed closely behind them. They smiled at us when Daizan motioned toward the camera.

“Before we begin I want it known to the monks that I am sharing this special ceremony with Rohan who holds a higher rank than any here in his own religious order.” Daizan said. “Even more importantly he has been a true friend to Genta and brought him and us much joy.”

“And good food.” a monk said.

“And Polish mineral water.” another called out.

“Do you mind?” Daizan asked the assembled monks.

“Oh, sorry, didn't know this was one of your long-winded speeches.” the same monk said unabashed. “One that goes on for more than three sentences.”

“In this instance it is understandable that Daizan and Mu should have concocted a speech fueled by Polish mineral water.” I said. “This is a speech for Genta.”

“Ahem.” Daizan said looking at me sternly.

“Oyaji, you can spank me when we next meet.” I said. “That will be less embarrassing than a flowery speech of my good virtues.”

“Genta would love this.” Tracy whispered to Leslie.

“You're right, Tracy.” I whispered back. Catching Lao's eye I made a motion to the door. He slid out of the room and Tracy handed me her cellphone when he answered her call. “Lao I'd like Genta to pass on in the room with all his friend close. Can you help.”

“Will you assist me?” Lao asked. “You might need to share some of your secrets.”

“Gladly. A gift.” I said. “Keep me on the line in case Mu protests.”

There was a stirring in the room when Mu and Lao led Genta into the hall. I reminded Daizan this was not unprecedented. Many Buddhist monks had joined in the chanting at the time of their passing. Daizan gave me a long look then bowed his head. Genta settled on a cushion facing the others. Mu, Daizan and Lao took cushions facing him.

“First you try to poison me and now you are trying to keep me alive longer.” Genta declared when he saw us. “Tracy he is not worthy of you. I will interceded with the gods on your behalf in person.”

“Genta you will live for eternity in my heart but that clothing you are wearing has too many wrinkles.” I told him. “Why don't we take care of them?”

“Maybe there is hope for you.” Genta said. “Let's not cause your sons any more sadness. Thank you my friend. Go well.”

“And you Genta. And you.” I said and began the traditional Buddhist chant.

Genta and the others joined in. I waited until I'd heard the boys say the chant before I split my focus. Out on the vast surface of a dessert I visualized a pyramid created of violet light. Then I saw an image of myself standing inside it. Reaching out with my awareness I called out to Lao and invited him to join me in the pyramid. Above the pyramid in a vast swirling pool I saw the ocean of universal chi. From this ocean I saw chi flow over and down through the capstone in a stream of golden light. This stream continued to flow down through the bottom of the pyramid and into Genta's physical form through the crown chakra.

The chanting continued on and on with Genta leading it in a strong, steady voice. Lao and I waited patiently in the pyramid, the Polish farmhouse and the monastery simultaneously. Leslie and Tracy were supporting me now as I started to reel a little bit from the effort required to keep things separate. When I saw Genta smile and sigh I broke my chant to call out to Mu who got up and took up position behind Genta. Moments later he caught a slumping Genta in his arms and laid him gently on the floor. I kept the connection between Genta and the flow of golden light until of its own accord the light stopped flowing and three of us stood in the pyramid. We bowed our heads to each other and I let the image dissolve with a quick prayer of thanks.

Kazimierz quietly slipped a chair behind me and the ladies lowered me into it. Two monks came in to gather Genta on a wooden stretcher and carried him away. The boys remained in the meditation hall with Lao after the others had left.

“Mu told us it was a great honor being invited to watch the cremation on the pyre but we couldn't see Genta like that.” Dylan said.

“Thank you for trusting us enough to have Genta with us in the hall.” Adam said. “I nearly lost the chant when he came in.”

“But you didn't lose it.” I said. “That is possibly the hardest thing you have faced in your life. All three of you were incredibly brave.”

“Was it something you did or the chant because I feel very at peace right now?” Morgan asked.

“The chant does that.” I explained. “All I did was supply a little chi to keep Genta strong enough to keep saying the chant until he was ready to let go of the body.”

“You did much more than that.” Lao said. “So simple and such a great gift. Rohan nobody has given me a gift of greater value. You have shown me how to heal and keep a person conscious as they transition from the physical into non-physical form. Your dad helped Genta cross over without any sensation of shock or regret or confusion. He slipped out of his body and on with his journey without missing a beat. Dylan I think he used the Universal chi but I will need to think about it more and chat to him when he returns.”

“Genta merely had the same experience of rebirth I had during my spiritual death.” I said simply. “The only difference between us was Genta chose not to return to the physical form. This choice felt so right there was no reason for shock. The love of all who witnessed his passing made it even easier for him.”

“Love heals even beyond the physical.” Adam said. “That's why you keep telling us love is eternal.”

“Sometimes I'm so proud of you I just want to spank you.” I said causing Natalia to laugh.

“Don't worry Rohan I'll spank him for you.” Morgan said which caused Natalia to laugh louder. “Is it true you outrank everybody present today?”

“Yes but I'd appreciate it if you waited a bit to question me about it.” I said.

“Rohan shared a lot of it with us last night and I would be grateful if you boys let it rest for a while.” Leslie added. “Call it a wedding gift if it makes you feel better.”

“After what Dad did today it is the least we can do.” Adam said. “Consider it forgotten.”

“The boys will do their Tai Chi in the garden after breakfast.” Lao told us. “Their moms, your housekeeper, Juliet, Trevor, Abby and Catherine are preparing breakfast in the kitchen. I may have forgotten to mention one or two others who are in there with them. Tracy do you have that tea with you?”

“The one you had me get from the herb shop with the tea for our patients? Yes, I do.” Tracy said.

“Please brew it for Rohan. All of it now. He also needs something to eat.” Lao instructed.

“We have some leftover meat and vegetables from the thank you dinner last night.” Natalia said. “Tracy will you show me how to make that sauce?”

“I will take the boys to wash before breakfast.” Lao said. “Tracy please give me a call in an hour. I'd like you all to watch the boys.” Lao said.

“We'd love that. Thank you, Lao.” Leslie told him. “We'll also stay signed in to Skype.”

Leslie helped me to the bathroom where I took off my shirt and freshened up a little. Tracy brought me some tea and waited while I drained the cup. I drank the rest of it at the dining table. The food helped me regather myself. I took a slow walk around the property seeing what Wincenty had meant when he spoke of the new addition. Bram walked with me and answered my questions.

Tracy was curious about why the boys were wearing white. I explained in China that if the person passing on was very old white was sometimes worn instead of the more sombre colors. Personally I thought it fitting because it reflected the purity Genta had attained in spirit and brought to the world through his physical form. When I admitted that might be a biased viewpoint Tracy told me she liked that bias and would adopt it as well.

The members of our gang who had traveled with the boys stood behind the kneeling monks. The boys and Lao performed so smoothly it amazed me. What made me even more amazed was when Lao told us he hadn't used chi to help the boys. Genta would have wanted it just as it was even if they had missed a step or two he told us. I agreed with him. Dylan told me they would drink the tea Lao suggested. They would return home on Sunday. Daizan had requested some time with them over the weekend. Lao told us he might leave on Saturday morning depending on how the boys were doing.

Lao told the boys we were doing the same sequence as them here in Poland so they were welcome to watch if they wanted. Kazimierz told us when sunset would be and I converted it to American time for the boys. They told me they'd like to watch. The others told me they wouldn't miss it for anything. There was three hours until sunset. Leslie took a walk with me through the proposed garden sight.

“Kazimierz called to let us know you were having a ceremony for your friend.” Eliasz said when I greeted them. “You don't mind if we attend do you?”

“I would be honored. Tomek that bag is almost as big as you. Let me give you a hand carrying it.” I said lifting him off the ground with the bag.

“That doesn't work.” he said with a smile. “Sorry about your friend.”

“Thank you but he was very tired and I'm glad he is resting.” I said as Tracy relieved Tomek of the bag.

“Don't worry Tomek I'll save you one.” Tracy said looking in the bag. “These pastries look very nice.”

“One? Mama promised me two.” Tomek said.

“Tracy won't have time to eat too many. I will get her to help me prepare the ceremony for my friend. Would you like to help to?” I asked him as I carried him inside.

“What can I do?” Tomek asked.

“Thanks to these pastries you brought I think I can bribe Bram into teaching you how to use a flint to set fire to some kindling while I meditate with Tracy.” I explained.

“I would be happy to teach you because you also brought a box of English breakfast tea.” Bram told him. “Tracy just because you handed me the bag doesn't mean the tea is from you. Nice try though.”

Bram was kind enough to let me join Tomek in his lessons after tea. I wanted to know how long it would take Tomek to light the tinder but learning a trick or two from Bram would also be good. Tomek took a few minutes to realize less was more in blowing on his spark but in a surprisingly short amount of time he had it well-mastered. Tracy complimented him on learning so quickly and gave him another pastry as a reward.

“I've already had two.” Tomek told her looking longingly at the pastry.

“That was before your mom knew you would do so well learning how to start a fire.” Tracy explained. “Reward pastries are a bonus and don't count but just to be safe enjoy it outside while your mom cooks inside.”

Tracy got me a pastry with a plate and I sat down next to Tomek. I told him if his mom came out he could drop it on my plate so she would think it was mine. This helped him relax and enjoy his pastry. What he didn't know was Tracy had already gotten permission from Judyta to give him the extra pastry and told her off our plan with the plate. She had been standing behind us listening as I revealed what we would do.

“Sounds like a very good plan.” Judyta said kneeling behind Tomek. “I think Rohan knows more about being naughty than a church man should know.”

“Mama!” Tomek squawked. “This is a reward pastry and it doesn't count.”

“Good recovery.” Judyta complimented him. “You are right but if you have done something to deserve a reward you also deserve a kiss.”

Tomek found himself on the receiving end of a lot of kisses from all the ladies and me. Despite me telling her there was no need for her to do the hour long meditation I had planned Tracy insisted on joining me. Leslie and Ivan had set up some chairs a short distance from us. The chairs would spare Leslie's knees and the space between us would provide her with a little buffer in case my meditation took an unexpected turn.

“Leslie I can guarantee it won't take an unexpected turn.” I promised.

“That's only because you don't know what to expect.” Leslie countered. “Much like the mantra retreat.”

“Mantra retreat?” Judyta asked.

“Sit down and I'll explain it while those two daredevils get started.” Leslie said.

“At least half of our meditation will be imagining our happy memories and the good things we remember about Genta. We are using this energy to infuse this small effigy.” I explained to Tracy. “When the others join us we will allow them to spend some time doing it as well. We will wrap it in a picture of Genta before setting fire to it with the burning tinder Tomek will bring over. One glass of vodka is for the two of us to pour on the burning pyre. The other two we will drink is to wish him well on his journey.”

“Will the others know about the toast?” Tracy asked.

“Yes. I've already let Daizan know what I had planned.” I told her. “He will make certain everybody will have something to toast Genta.”

We were facing the setting sun and I glanced up at it before closing my eyes. This time I didn't hold back. On the surface of the lake appeared an image of Genta stretched out on his back as if asleep. The sun and the light shining from it represented all the good feelings, gratitude, appreciation and love I held for Genta. When I repeated each mantra within me it was with a focus I'd never used before. I'd always had a healthy respect for mantras so on my retreat I'd held back a little. Some or rather most would say wisely considering the results. Tonight I wanted every bit of power I could draw from each of them. Three rounds of all nine mantras brought me to the point where I had them vibrating as crisply and clearly as possible at this time.

Keeping them at this pitch I went through all nine another three times. One more set of three rounds I decided. Then I settled on the bell mantra. Allowing its sweet sound to carry my thoughts and feelings to the effigy. There were startled gasps from the people seated behind me soon after I began but now there was just silence. Tracy spoke for me when the others joined us. She told them since they could not feel the energy I would share a Gregorian chant with them while they infused the effigy. Sending out a silent plea for support from the universe and all who had ever sung this chant I let the bell mantra deafen me on the inside as the chant flowed from me.

Tomek walked over carefully carrying the tinder. While the last amen still hung on the air I opened my eyes. I was stunned to see every monk was present. I bowed forward and placed my forehead on the ground. Then I wrapped the effigy in the picture, wrapped it in twine and placed it on the small altar. I smiled my thanks at Tomek as I took the burning tinder. The small dry twigs and leaves of the pyre caught swiftly. When it was burning steadily Tracy helped me pour vodka on the flames.

“Go well. Genta. Forever in my heart.” I said while the effigy finished burning. Then I knocked back the vodka. I smiled when I heard some coughs coming from amidst the monks. There were a few non-drinkers who had bravely chosen to drink Genta's Polish mineral water. Tracy smiled as well. Then she hugged me and kissed my cheek. The monks cheered. I promised I'd come and cook for them again. They cheered some more.

“Must be the vodka.” I said. “Thank you all for your kindness to my family and for joining me.”

The monks bowed in response and filed out of the garden. In the background I could hear Leif telling them he wasn't ruining the food by reheating it. Mu told me he'd reheated it twice and refused to serve any until after our service.

“Petersen there are monks present.” we heard him shout. “You can't kiss me like that in front of the monks. Unhand me or I'll have to take you for another bath.”

“That's a great idea. Now hand me the ladle. We've got it from here.” Juliet said. “I'm a professional Dominatrix just itching to join the two of you in the bathroom. Warming you up for Petersen is the least he deserves for feeding us so well.”

There was a startled squawk and we saw Leif dragging Petersen away in the background. I was so grateful for Juliet. She had made me realize that despite the loss of Genta there were many lovely souls around me. There was still an ocean of love available to me if I didn't obsess over the loss of a wave.

“Dylan, please go into the kitchen and swat Juliet with a wooden spoon for me. Then kiss her. Tell her I love her and will explain when I get home.” I instructed calmly.

“Sure, Dad.” Dylan said. “I'll be right back.”

“That's one brave boy.” Tracy said.

“He must have been at the vodka all day.” Ivan told us.

“Rohan you will explain while shackled to the dungeon wall.” Juliet said suddenly appearing in front of the camera. “I love you to. Tracy from two to five on Tuesday he is mine. I'll text you the address later. Now I have monks to feed.”

“Looking forward to it Juliet.” I said sincerely. “Thank you, Dylan. That was nicely done.”

“You may not be thanking me around four on Tuesday.” Dylan warned. “That was fun and you get the punishment.”

“He deserves no less.” Adam said wiping at his eyes. “Tracy can you think of a more fitting gift than the chant he sang?”

“Rohan you are the best.” Morgan said. “We have to toast what you just did. I have a glass right here. Thanks Adam. Cheers Rohan.”

“Did you Rohan?” Leslie asked.

“I just did what felt right. No idea what he's on about.” I said. “Honestly Leslie after the meditation, mantras, chant and burning the effigy I can barely focus on my surroundings. All I know is Juliet is treating me to a session in her dungeon.”

“No cause for concern, Dylan.” Lao said stepping up to wrap an arm around him. “I had Tracy put another bag of the tea in the car and keep another at the hotel. One bag now and another in the morning please Tracy. Then you will need to buy some more. Ask Christopher to get enough for two doses on Sunday. We will arrange to have some at the apartment when you get back.

Rohan is just resurfacing. He had to go very deep within himself to sing that beautifully. I only know about chi and the chi of the chant was pitched perfectly. How did you?”

“There are a lot of souls who have sung that chant over the centuries.” I said. “Thankfully their voices drowned out mine. Now maybe Morgan will explain what I've talked my way into.”

“Remember how even when you were very ill you knew enough to protect Dylan by getting him angry?” Morgan asked.

“Yes, it was when I drew too much on my inner chi.” I said. “That was well over a month ago. What's that got to do with Juliet?”

“You did the same thing.” Morgan said. “When you and your friends from the heavenly choir began the chant it broke Juliet's heart. She was right behind me and I heard her sobbing. Somehow you knew she needed to thank you and this is the perfect way for her to do it. Despite appearances you are too well-behaved and respectful of that part of her to swat her butt casually. There is absolutely no way you'd have one of us boys do it under normal circumstances. I think I am glad I don't know how many things your mind can focus on and keep track off even when you are so deep within yourself.”

“My wedding is next Saturday and Rohan has a lot to do. She better not be too enthusiastic in her thanks.” Leslie warned. “Morgan I will trust you and chat with her Monday afternoon when all of our emotions have settled. The chant was exquisite Rohan. Please thank your friends for us. Will you ask if they will bless my wedding with a chant? Surprise me.”

“Before you all rush off to lunch and us to dinner how are you boys doing?” Tracy asked.

They told us seeing the look of peace on Genta's face when he died had been very healing. Dylan said my little ceremony and sing along had been the perfect way to end proceedings. Lao told us their chi was surprising balanced. The ritual with the effigy was particularly beneficial. Ivan said it had helped him a lot. Before we closed our Skype connection the others insisted on saying thank you. Tomek blushed when they included him in their thanks. Leslie told him he'd done very well and deserved their thanks. Adam asked Tracy to please keep a very close eye on me until we returned. She promised to keep an eye on me every moment. I groaned and told Adam now she'd be in the shower with me. He told me I could give him a thank you spanking when I got home.

“And a shower with or without Tracy.” Dylan said.

“That's why I love my brother. Always looking out for me.” Adam said hugging Dylan. “Good night everybody.”

“Tracy will be hosing you scurvy knaves down next week.” I vowed. “Good bye guys. Enjoy your studies.”

Leslie told Tracy she'd look after me while my tea was being brewed. I managed to ease myself up off my knees after ten minutes. Bram told me the dinner should smell good because I had mixed the spices for the vegetables and meat. Yes I had forgotten I admitted to Ivan. The food was delicious. I agreed with Tracy that getting me to bed early would be a good idea. Eight hours of sleep is all I need I assured our hosts. I thanked them for allowing us to use their space. Natalia told me I was welcome to sing for them anytime. Tomek snuggled on my lap and we both fell asleep on the ride home. I didn't even stir when they took him off my lap. Tracy gently shook me awake at the hotel parking and led me straight up to bed.

The eight hours rest did revive me. We ate breakfast in the hotel restaurant so I wouldn't be tempted to linger and end up late for my brief meeting with the bank manager. I thanked him for all his help and the loan of his computer guy. Eliasz mentioned the loans for the houses. The manager told him to stop in tomorrow morning and they'd get everything in order before Eliasz left. Eliasz told us we could go by Sabina's herb store and be in time for our meeting with the architect. I made the architect show me at least twenty different designs for the six cob homes. Wincenty had joined us so I had him choose the design he wanted.

“You know how many children the farmers have.” I told him. “Pick a few choices for each family with everybody having their own room. I want at least two toilets per home. A separate dining area and deck or porch are also mandatory.”

“I have a selection of three each for them to choose from.” Wincenty said a few minutes later. “I will be back for dinner at Alenka.”

“We'll meet here again first thing tomorrow morning.” I said. “Eliasz we will go to the bank afterward. Thank you for your hard work and for accommodating me with a selection of plans. We will discuss the eco-friendly products tomorrow with Bram present.”

Alenka insisted I see her lovely container garden and grill. There was also a seating area Leslie and Ivan were testing for her. The dining furniture looked even better in her home. She tried to hug and kiss me but was crying too hard. I leaned down and kissed her cheek before Judyta led her to a seat next to Leslie. Feliks stood at the kitchen door and told me we would need to drive to Warsaw tomorrow afternoon. The quickest flight to Heathrow was from Warsaw. They had made arrangements for Kazimierz' uncle, Wincenty and Kazimierz to drive us all to Warsaw. Our agent had called our hotel and got a recommendation for a hotel in Warsaw. Our flight would leave just before eight and arrive around nine-thirty a.m. I thanked him for all his help. Feliks surprised me by offering to help with dinner. He surprised me even more by being very good at prep work.

Wincenty told me he would show me the farmer's choices after dinner. I'd had to bake my Polish bread for Ivan. This time I got to bake some apple pies for dessert as well. Tomek would get an entire pie for himself. The meat was still cooking so Wincenty showed us the plans chosen before dinner. Alenka told us we will celebrate tonight for the farmers. We kept it a muted celebration. Tomek grinned broadly when I slid an entire pie in front of him. Judyta told him to save some for tomorrow. She scolded me for spoiling him. Tracy told her the boys were waiting to spoil him rotten as well.

“Thank you, Alenka.” I said as we hugged. “You were very kind to let me use your kitchen.”

I walked her neighbor home and kissed her cheek on her doorstep. Alenka got her revenge for the comment earlier this week. We enjoyed a nightcap with Sanne and Bram in my room. I suggested we pack our bags tonight before bed. Bram told me he'd be happy to speak with the contractor and architect. I turned off my bedside light at eleven.

Tracy, Sanne and Bram agreed it would be nice to see some of Warsaw. Wincenty told me our drivers could be in town at lunch time and if we left around noon we could be in Warsaw around four or five depending on traffic. A quick series of texts revealed most of the group had already started gathering at the meat shop anyway. Feliks texted Tracy to say they would make sandwiches while we were at our meetings. The contractor and architect told us it would take a little longer to get approval for the farms because there were extra health and safety requirements with the animals.

“Almost everybody involved with the meat shop will be away for two weeks so concentrate on Kazimierz and Natalia's home.” I reminded them. “This will give Bram some extra time to look at the farmer's homes. We can also consult with my decorator back home. No sense in rushing into anything. Let's make use of the time we have and get it right.”

The bank manager told me Eliasz could finish the paperwork for the loans when he returned. I did have to talk the bank into charging me more. Once I explained they had my business but I needed them to stay in business the manager allowed Eliasz to set what he thought was a fair interest rate. Leslie and Tracy chuckled as we left saying only Rohan would argue with a bank to pay them more. They decided it stemmed from belonging to a religious order that brought banking to Europe.

When we arrived at the meat shop we were quickly bundled into cars and handed sandwiches made with freshly smoked meat. Feliks had kept his promise that I would try some meat from their smoker before we left Katowice. Tomek was too excited to sleep so he rode on my lap all the way to Warsaw. Tracy followed our route on her smart phone and we stopped at a few places of interest for bathroom breaks and refreshments. The cost of several rooms would have been about the same as us all sharing three suites. We were given an entire floor to ourselves because they were so grateful to have the business. I promised the manager who welcomed us he'd get more from me and my business associates. Tracy told him I had a lot of them. He's in charge of a global organization Leslie added. These comments earned us free tea and pastries which cheered me up a bit.

After I had finally reassured the manager that everything was perfect we were left alone. I placed Sanne and Tracy in charge of finding us some stuff to see and do for the next few hours. Ivan helped Leslie reserve several tables at a restaurant the manager had recommended. Let's use Tomek's bedtime as our time to return to the hotel.

“Yes, Papa” Tracy said kissing my cheek. Swat! “Ouch. That smarts. What are you grinning at Tomek?”

“Nothing. I'm just happy and excited because we're in Warsaw.” Tomek said blandly. Tracy decided to tickle him for a few minutes anyway.

We managed to sneak into a museum for an hour before it closed. Then we wandered around the streets for a bit enjoying the sights. Judyta spent most of her time keeping me from treating Tomek to pastries, ice-creams and chocolates. I managed to sneak in a few treats despite her best efforts. The food at the restaurant was flavorful and filling which is all I wanted. They served overly large desserts so Tomek shared his with Judyta. I slid some of Tracy's dessert on to his plate when she wasn't looking. Unfortunately he never wiped his face quick enough and I ended up getting tickled. Judyta declared it was time to get the two boys back to the hotel so she could relax a little.

Tomek was allowed to stay up an extra thirty minutes to chat with the boys. They were about to go study with Daizan for two hours but wanted to chat with me as well so their class got delayed. I took the laptop out to the balcony to chat in private with Daizan. All Daizan wanted was to thank me for giving Genta such a wonderful send-off. He'd been worried about the boys seeing Genta die but had really wanted him in the meditation hall with the monks when it happened. I thanked him for considering the boys above his own wishes on something this important. One day I may well teach them what my order believes about death and the afterlife I told Daizan but for now it is good for them to learn your views. Lao will share his views with them soon. Then if they ask about my beliefs they will have a well-rounded view.

I red for an hour after our chat but decided to turn in early. Everybody was excited to see London tomorrow even if it would just be for a day.